Manchester United are reportedly competing to acquire the services of Benfica's 19-year-old midfielder Joao Neves.
Neves has garnered attention from major European clubs due to his impressive performances, and both Manchester teams, United and City, are said to be pursuing him.
Neves currently has a release clause in his contract set at €120 million, which could potentially lead to a bidding war among the interested parties. Alternatively, if a club swiftly approaches him and reaches a verbal agreement with the player, Benfica might consider a lower transfer fee, similar to what happened with Goncalo Ramos last summer.
In recent times, Neves has cemented his position as a regular starter in the first team, making 11 appearances this season and providing one assist. In the previous season, he played in 38 games, including youth-level matches, where he scored one goal and contributed three assists.
Neves can also operate as a link between the defense and attack. He is best deployed as a lone defensive midfielder or as a number eight in a double pivot.
At just 19 years old, he has significant potential for development and could potentially serve as a long-term replacement for Casemiro at Old Trafford if Manchester United secures his signing in the future.
Manchester United's midfield, led by manager Erik ten Hag, currently features aging players, with individuals like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen already in their 30s. Even younger players like Scott McTominay may have limited time left at the club.
Bruno Fernandes will turn 30 next year, indicating the need for a replacement in the near future. For the club's long-term success, it would be prudent to rejuvenate the midfield in the coming years and replace these aging stars with younger talents who can secure the midfield for years to come.
The acquisition of Mason Mount, given his age and abilities, is a step in the right direction, and adding Joao Neves to the mix could further strengthen Manchester United's squad.
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