Man Utd in talks for ‘subsequent Fernandes’ Joao Neves after brutal Chelsea response
Manchester United are in talks over the signing of Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves and lead Chelsea within the race for his signature, in line with stories. Neves has been mooted because the ‘subsequent Bruno Fernandes‘ and will be part of the United captain at Old Trafford within the upcoming 12 months.
Erik ten Hag reportedly desires a second midfielder earlier than Friday’s summer season switch deadline, with Sofyan Amrabat and Ryan Gravenberch among the many gamers linked.
But he additionally allegedly has an eye fixed on the longer term, figuring out Neves as a goal for January or the tip of his second season in England.
According to The Sun, United have mentioned a attainable take care of Benfica for the 18-year-old midfielder, who has been dubbed Fernandes 2.0.
Neves featured 17 instances in Benfica’s Liga Portugal-winning 2022/23 marketing campaign, changing into a daily starter within the latter levels.
He boasted sturdy numbers in tackling, blocking and progressive passing to catch the attention of heavyweight suitors and has began two of the Lisbon giants’ three video games this time period.
The report claims that Chelsea have additionally proven an curiosity in Neves, however Benfica are reluctant to ship him to Stamford Bridge after final winter’s Enzo Fernandez saga.
Chelsea’s relentless January curiosity noticed Fernandez depart in a £107million deal late on, and Benfica are mentioned to retain a bitter feeling in the direction of the Blues.
It has left United in pole place for Neves’ signature, and the 5ft 9in maestro goals of enjoying within the Premier League.
However, Benfica look set to make United wait till subsequent summer season to finish a transfer as they put together for Champions League soccer.
A January exit may enter the realm of risk if Roger Schmidt’s facet exit within the group stage, which can come at a helpful time for Ten Hag.
Early-season accidents to Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount have diminished the Dutchman’s choices.
He has simply Casemiro, Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes and Hannibal to pick from whereas Donny van de Beek makes an attempt to safe a switch away.
Further issues within the coming months would go away Ten Hag determined for mid-season reinforcements.
And Neves may pose as a beautiful choice to combine into his squad because the Dutchman focuses on profitable now and constructing the foundations for future success.
Neves, a Portugal U21 worldwide, has an estimated market worth of £8.6m, however Benfica will seemingly demand an inflated price, given the magnitude of the curiosity.
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