Manchester United are keen on Joao Neves alongside other clubs, but Benfica seems uninterested in entertaining approaches at the moment.
According to Jornal de Noticias via Sport Witness, Manchester United have a concrete interest in Benfica’s 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder Joao Neves. The Red Devils have a tough task convincing Benfica, who seem uninterested in even entertaining enquiries.
Portuguese clubs have stuck to their task of producing some top talents through their brilliant academies, and they have another gem on their hands. Benfica’s 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder Joao Neves continues to attract the interest of top clubs, with Manchester United and Juventus in the mix.
Manchester United were interested during the summer when Neves had a modest €60 million release clause in his contract. Benfica have since renewed his terms without extending the length of his agreement. The new deal does come with a massive salary increase and doubled his termination clause to €120 million.
Barcelona also hold an interest in Neves, but the report also points towards Juventus being keen on the 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder. The story insists Benfica did not entertain enquiries from the Italian side and will stick with their stance for the foreseeable future.
Hence, Manchester United must trigger Neves’ release clause to stand any chance of signing him next summer. Benfica have shown they are tough negotiators for their players and will not budge for a lower price. Last January, they held their ground and sold Enzo Fernandez for his full valuation. They acted similarly while dealing with PSG for Goncalo Ramos.
Neves is a young rising star who can produce some big moments in the coming years for Benfica. The Portuguese side are in no rush to sell the 19-year-old midfielder and remain protected through a long-term contract.
Hence, the strategy of ignoring the overtures of big clubs may suit Benfica in their quest to keep the midfielder. Anyone who wants the player must pay the release clause in full, whereas Benfica may not have the power to stop the deal.
Manchester United will likely keep tabs on the young midfielder for the time being. They will hope for Benfica to loosen their stance by next summer, thus opening the door to negotiate favourable terms for the 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder.
