Manchester United are keeping tabs on Benfica’s 2004-born midfielder Joao Neves.
England’s ‘Team Talk’ reported on July 15 (KST), “Manchester United have been keeping tabs on Neves since last month. According to recent reports, United watched Benfica’s victory over Sporting and observed Neves in person.”
Born in 2004, the 19-year-old came through the Benfica youth ranks, progressing through the Benfica B team before making his first-team debut in the 2022-23 season. He impressed in his debut season, scoring one goal in 17 league appearances.
He signed a long-term contract ahead of this season. The five-year deal, with a €120 million buyout clause, keeps him at the club where he grew up. He has also become a full-fledged starter this season, scoring one goal and providing one assist in 11 league appearances and earning a call-up to the Portuguese national team. Neves’ performances have helped Benfica sit atop the league table.
Neves has earned his place in the first team with skills beyond his years. Man United are reportedly keeping tabs on him. “Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that United officials were watching him during Sunday’s game,” the outlet reported. “The Red Devils have been monitoring Neves since youth level,” he added.
But there’s a catch. That aforementioned buyout. “Whether United make a move for Neves will be decided when Sir Jim Ratcliffe finalizes the board of directors after taking a 25 percent stake in the club. Nevertheless, time is on United’s side if Benfica are reluctant to sell Neves in January. However, his new contract includes a €120 million buyout clause. Few clubs would pay such a price for a relatively inexperienced player.”