Joao Neves to Man Utd: Transfer latest with Chelsea ‘interest’ & Fabrizio Romano’s £105m claim

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Benfica’s Joao Neves.

The teenager only made his debut for the Portuguese side last season but has become a regular in less than a year. Neves has played every single match for Benfica this campaign and earned a first senior Portugal cap in October.

The player’s rapid rise has altered the attention of United, with the first report of the club’s interest coming in August. The Sun reported in the summer that United and Benfica ‘have held some discussions over a possible deal’, although the outlet added that the Portuguese champions do not plan to sell this season, with Chelsea also interested.

Journalist Pedro Almeida also claimed Benfica would not sell the player mid-season unless United are willing to meet his buyout clause. Meanwhile, Portuguese outlet Record have stated that the midfielder’s ability has ‘convinced’ United to make an offer at some point.

Fabrizio Romano shed more light on Neves’ buyout clause, which he claimed is €120m (£105m), and added that United have sent scouts to observe the 19-year-old ‘many times’ this season. Separately, the transfer reporter told the United Stand that a move for Neves is more likely to happen next summer.

United, of course, already have a Portuguese midfielder in their ranks. Captain Bruno Fernandes has become well acquainted with Neves at international level and said he would ‘love to see the player make the switch to Old Trafford.

“He’s a great player, I don’t know if he would have a place or not. It depends on the coach and his ideas,” Fernandes said last week.

“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.”