Manchester United have reportedly failed with a bid worth €70 million to sign Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, a target for Arsenal and Chelsea.
According to a report by Correio da Manha, as relayed by Sport Witness, Joao Neves is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils have submitted a bid worth €70 million to sign the Benfica midfield sensation in the summer transfer window. However, the Portuguese giants have turned down the offer for the 19-year-old, with Arsenal and Chelsea also vying for his signature.
The rise and rise of Joao Neves
Joao Neves has emerged as the latest highly-rated prospect from Portugal. The teenage sensation is a native of Tavira and spent the early years of his youth career in his hometown. He joined SL Benfica in 2016 and has rapidly progressed through the ranks at the club before breaking into the first-team squad in January 2023.
Since then, the 19-year-old has come leaps and bounds, establishing himself as a mainstay in the middle of the park for Benfica. Neves has also broken into the Portuguese national team, making nine appearances thus far for the Selecao. Meanwhile, the youngster’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United.
A man in demand
Widespread reports have heavily linked the Portuguese international with Manchester United. The Red Devils are keen on bolstering their midfield department in the summer transfer window, with Casemiro approaching the twilight of his career. So, Neves has emerged as a viable target for Manchester United, with the club now failing with a bid worth €70 million to secure his services.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s interest in Joao Neves is understandable. The Gunners are keen on signing a young midfielder in the summer transfer window, with Thomas Partey facing an uncertain future at the Emirates. So, the Portuguese midfield sensation is an option worth considering for Arsenal.
As for Chelsea, the West London club’s interest in the youngster is surprising, considering they invested heavily in midfielders last summer. Nevertheless, they are keen on signing the 19-year-old prospect, whose release clause is worth €120 million.
Considering Neves has a release clause worth €120 million in his contract, it is hardly surprising that they have rejected Manchester United’s bid. Paris Saint-Germain also offered €70 million to sign the 19-year-old Portuguese international. However, his suitors must fork out a premium to secure his services.
