Manchester United are expected to return with an improved offer for Joao Neves, but unlikely to match the €120 million release clause.
According to A Bola via Sport Witness, Manchester United could return to Benfica with an improved offer for Joao Neves. Reports suggested the Red Devils had made a proposal worth €50-60 million and could improve on those terms, although they are unlikely to come anywhere close to the €120 million release clause.
Manchester United will make an improved Joao Neves offer
Joao Neves looks like an essential target for Manchester United ahead of the summer, with the club seeking midfield reinforcements. The Benfica star may be young, and there’s a particular element of risk if the Red Devils are thinking about pairing him with teenager Kobie Mainoo. However, he’s one of the significant market opportunities that could materialize in the summer.
Arsenal are also keen, but it appears Manchester United has made a bid for the midfielder. They had reportedly lodged an offer worth €50-60 million recently, which was swiftly rejected by Benfica, as their president Rui Costa is reportedly holding out for at least €100 million in fixed fees.
Neves has a €120 million release clause in his contract, which does gives Benfica the power in negotiations. The Portuguese club may have wanted to hand the midfielder an improved deal, which would have increased his release clause to €150 million alongside an enhanced salary, but they have failed in this attempt. Manchester United are now expected to return with an improved offer.
While all eyes will be on how much they offer, the Red Devils are unlikely to come anywhere close to the €120 million-rated midfielder’s release clause. They might have to get this right in the end, or else Manchester United will risk allowing rivals to enter the chase for the highly-rated Portuguese star.
Neves to replace Casemiro?
After extensive scouting of Neves, the observers have recommended the midfielder to the club, although there are some questions about where he might fit in. The rise of Kobie Mainoo has made him a starter of sorts in that team, and should the €120 million-rated midfielder arrive, then many will expect him to begin games.
If Manchester United are viewing him as a replacement for Saudi-linked Casemiro, they might be making a big mistake on their part. Pairing Mainoo and Neves is a considerable risk in the context of the long season, as their inexperience could expose the midfield and defence. Hence, the two midfielders are players who need an experienced head beside them to flourish and bring balance to the team on the pitch.
