Paris Saint-Germain are all set to win the race for the services of Liverpool midfield target Joao Neves.
According to Correio da Manha via Paisley Gates, Liverpool are all set to miss out on their top midfield target Joao Neves as the Portuguese international is all set to join Paris Saint-Germain this summer. While the Reds were looking to make an offer for his signature, the deal now seems out of their reach.
Neves has had an exceptional rise at Benfica. He was promoted to their first team at the start of 2023 and has been a regular feature in their XI since. Last season, he was involved in 55 matches and even contributed towards five goals. His consistent performances in the centre of the park haven’t gone unnoticed.
Benfica president Rui Costa wants him to continue at the club but that doesn’t seem to be a possibility. While he still has four years left on his deal, the player is keen on making a move to a bigger club. With the Euro’s now over, he is looking to decide on his future as soon as possible.
Liverpool keen on signing Neves
Liverpool are one of the clubs that are quite keen on signing him. Arne Slot want a new defensive midfielder before the start of next season. He feels that it is an important area that needs an upgrade with veteran Japanese Wataru Endo as their current first choice option for that role.
The Dutch manager is a big admirer of Neves and wants the Portuguese sensation in his squad. His arrival could complete the midfield overhaul at Anfield that began last summer under Jurgen Klopp. He could be a great option for the short as well as the long run.
PSG winning the race for Neves
While Liverpool are keen on his signature and they were looking to table an offer for his services, PSG seem to be very close to winning the race for Neves’ services. The French giants who have been in negotiations with Benfica for some time, recently submitted a bid worth €70 million.
The report suggests the Eagles are close to selling the teenager to PSG in a deal that is identical to the one where Darwin Nunez joined Liverpool two years back. The Portuguese outfit wants the initial fee to go up to €75 million along with significant add-ons.
There is not much difference in the valuations of both parties which means they could soon strike a deal. With PSG set to win the race for Neves, the Reds will now have to look elsewhere for a number six who can help their cause.
