Bruno Fernandes has given verdict on Man Utd target amid Fabrizio Romano transfer update

Manchester United have been linked with a move for Benfica starboy Joao Neves in recent months - but they could face difficulties should they choose to pursue a transfer deal for the youngster.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) from journalist Fabrizio Romano, he mentioned that Benfica have 'no intention' to allow Neves to move to United in the January transfer window - despite the belief that the Red Devils have sent their scouts to monitor his progress 'many times'.

Of course, if United are willing to shell out £105 million to activate Neves' minimum fee release clause, Benfica's hand will be forced. Even for a club of United's standing, however, £105 million is an astronomical fee for a player who is unproven in the Premier League.

Currently, the record transfer fee paid by a club in the Premier League stands just above the £105 million mark at £106.8 million - the old record was broken when Chelsea bought Enzo Fernandez, also from Benfica, for this amount of money in the 2023 January transfer window.

Bruno Fernandes had some positive words for his international compatriot, saying: "He’s [Neves] a great player, I don’t know if he would have a place or not. It depends on the coach and his ideas. But he’s an excellent player and an excellent kid, very professional, he will have a bright future wherever he goes. I would love to have him by my side. Because he has quality and will have a bright future. It depends on him. What I want most is the best for him."

Who else is interested in a move for Benfica's Joao Neves?

Despite United's abundant interest in Neves, they are not the only club who has been linked with a move for the 19-year-old. According to GOAL, Manchester City's Bernardo Silva has been in contact with the player. He has urged him to join the Citizens over United - though it remains unclear just how badly their manager, Pep Guardiola, wants to bring him to the Etihad Stadium.