Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe holds talks with teenage sensation Joao Neves’ agent Jorge Mendes.
According to a report by The Mirror, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has held a meeting with Portuguese super-agent Jorge Mendes. The new Manchester United co-owner is looking to make major moves in the upcoming transfer window and Mendes’ client Joao Neves is one of their names on the wishlist.
Ratcliffe meets Mendes to discuss transfer plans
Ratcliffe and the INEOS have full control over United’s sporting decisions and they have already made major changes within the club. While they are busy making appointments in key roles at the club, the Red Devils are also planning for the upcoming transfer window.
They want to ensure they make the right choices in the summer transfer window and Ratcliffe’s meeting with super agent Jorge Mendes was one of the initial steps from the new part-owner. The Portuguese agent manages some of the biggest names in the world football and he also has some of the brightest talents under his wings.
Multiple clubs in the recent past have relied on his players to establish themselves in the English top flight and United are looking to follow the same path. They are interested in his client Joao Neves who has been doing wonders for Benfica.
Manchester United keen on signing Joao Neves
The 19-year-old defensive midfielder was promoted to Benfica’s first team at the start of 2023. Despite being a teenager he has already featured in 72 matches for their first team and his impressive performances have also helped him break into the Portugal national team.
Neves is already a mainstay at the Portuguese club and there is no shortage of interest in him. Manchester United are one of the clubs keen on having him in their squad. They have him on their wishlist as he seems to be a perfect fit for the plans of their new owners.
They are looking for young players who can help them in the long run and Neves surely can. The Red Devils are reportedly willing to spend a significant fee to sign the £103 million-rated star. As a result, Ratcliffe’s meeting with Mendes will surely help their pursuit of the teenage sensation.
His arrival could be a huge boost for their midfield. Not only will they have a long-term replacement for Casemiro, but the Portuguese international could pair up with Kobbie Mainoo in the centre of the park for years to come.