£103m Man Utd target drops transfer bombshell as 'contact' made for Serie A wonderkid

There is a sense of new-found optimism around Manchester United and Erik ten Hag will hope to build on that at Luton Town this weekend. The Reds have won their last four games in all competitions and can extend that run with another positive performance at Kenilworth Road on Sunday.

Off the pitch, United's newest investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe saw his stake in the club ratified by both the Premier League and Football Association, with work intensifying behind the scenes ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer. In the meantime, ManchesterWorld has rounded up some of the latest headlines coming out of Old Trafford.

Transfer target's hint

Joao Neves 'can't promise' he will remain at Benfica beyond this season amid reported interest from United. The midfielder is on the radar of several top European clubs amid a breakthrough campaign at the Estadio da Luz.

Defensive midfield remains a priority area to strengthen at United amid concerns over the longevity of Casemiro, who will turn 32 this month. Neves, 19, is thought to have a £103million release clause in his current contract.

“Staying at Benfica next year? I can’t promise anything for next season," he told Portuguese outlet Sport TV. "My wish at the moment is to stay at Benfica and then we will see, you never know. I promise to do my best in every training session, in every game, and I think that is one of my greatest qualities."

Scalvini approach

United are also looking to strengthen at the back and have reportedly made contact with Atalanta regarding a move for Giorgio Scalvini. Italian outlet Calciomercato reports that the Reds 'been in touch' to scope out the terms of a potential deal.

Scalvini is thought to be valued at around £34m by Atalanta, who have their defender tied down until 2028 and so have no obligation to cash in. Despite being just 20-years-old, the defender is already into his third season of first-team football and has emerged as one of Europe's most promising young talents.

United are thought to want at least two new centre-backs in the summer, with Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans both set to leave as free agents once their contracts expire. Ten Hag is keen to lower the age profile in that area of the pitch.