Joao Neves has had a huge influence on the Benfica squad, stepping comfortably into Enzo Fernandes’ shoes since his £105 million move to Chelsea in January. He gradually became indispensable in Roger Schmidt’s midfield; therefore, Benfica claims that they will not lose him in the same manner in which they lost Enzo.
Regardless, the Portuguese midfield influences of Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva have gotten to work to sway the young Portuguese talent into their respective Premier League clubs as Erik Ten Hag and Manchester United prominently register their interests in him.
Bernardo Silva on Joao Neves transfer
Bernardo Silva has expressed his desire to influence João Neves to choose Manchester City over Manchester United. Silva has jokingly stated that he will “pull some strings” to sway Neves towards joining City instead of their local rivals.
The Portuguese youngster, despite being just 19 years old, has been making a name for himself at Benfica since the departure of Enzo Fernandez. He has stepped up to play a crucial role in the midfield following Enzo Fernández’s transfer to Chelsea. Neves has become an essential part of Roger Schmidt’s midfield at Benfica.
Manchester United has been actively scouting João Neves, even during the derby victory over Sporting Lisbon, where he showcased his talent by scoring an injury-time equalizer. The club is reportedly convinced of Neves’ potential, and the endorsement from United captain Bruno Fernandes adds weight to the possible move.
With Manchester City also registering a concrete interest in the player, Bernado Silva has revealed his intention to sway Joao Neves to City as opposed to Manchester United.
‘I am very happy for João and other kids who are appearing in Benfica’s team and also in the national team,’ Silva said during an appearance at a gala event in Lisbon.
Joao Neves in the Premier League? I think that players with quality can play in any championship. I see him very focused on his club, which is the most important thing at the moment, a very young player but with a very promising future ahead of him.”
“He arrived at the national team, settled in and integrated very well. He’s another one to help, if the coach thinks so, to help us help win the European Championship.”
“For City instead of United? If I can, I will pull strings to Joao Neves to go to Man City. I’d like to see João joining City instead of Man United, of course.”
However, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes had earlier pointed out that
“It has to be the Man United coach who says whether he has a place or not. 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.”
“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.”
Joao Neves to Manchester United rumors
João Neves, who has been a subject of interest from several top teams, including Manchester United, is not expected to be sold by Benfica in the upcoming January transfer window. The Portuguese club reportedly has no intention of parting ways with the talented midfielder mid-season.
Despite United’s keen interest and multiple scouting missions, a January exit for Neves seems highly unlikely, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Fabrizio had earlier posted on X saying, “Benfica have no intention to open talks for João Neves in January, despite Manchester United sending their scouts many times to track talented midfielders.
“There’s [the] same clause as Enzo Fernández one year ago into his contract: €120m.”
Benfica is reportedly not keen on allowing a key player like João Neves to leave mid-season, especially after the departure of Enzo Fernández to Chelsea earlier this year. The Portuguese club seems determined to retain Neves and resist any attempts to secure his departure in the upcoming January transfer window.
Do you think Manchester United will succeed at landing the Portuguese talent in January? Tell us what you think in the comments section.
