Manchester United ‘hold talks with Benfica over wonderkid Joao Neves’ – dubbed ‘Bruno Fernandes 2.0’ – and could steal a march on Chelsea because of the Enzo Fernandez saga
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Manchester United are reportedly in talks with Benfica over 18-year-old wonderkid Joao Neves – who has been dubbed ‘Bruno Fernandes 2.0.’
The Portugal Under 21 midfielder made 20 first-team appearances in 2022-23 as part of a breakthrough campaign at the Estadio da Luz.
The Sun reports that United have held some discussions over a potential deal with Neves keen to play in the Premier League.
Reports say Chelsea are also interested in the teenager and have made their own approach.
Manchester United are reportedly in talks with Benfica over 18-year-old wonderkid Joao Neves
Benfica’s Neves (right) can operate as a central midfielder or a defensive midfielder
However, it is believed the way Chelsea handled last January’s pursuit of £107m midfielder Enzo Fernandez may have made Benfica reluctant to deal with them.
United were transformed when they signed Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 and he is now their captain having scored 65 goals in 188 games for the club.
While Fernandes moved at a much older age, Neves would hope to make a similar impact at Old Trafford if a move happened.
Neves has a different profile to Fernandes, however, playing usually as a defensive midfielder or a central midfielder, with tackling and interceptions a strength.
That is exactly what United need at the moment to provide help for Casemiro, who looked stretched in their opening two Premier League games against Wolves and Tottenham.
Erik ten Hag will hope to sign another defensive midfielder before Friday night’s transfer deadline.
Neves has drawn comparisons to United captain Bruno Fernandes (left) for his qualities
Erik ten Hag would like to sign a defensive midfielder before the transfer window closes
Benfica’s unhappiness at how Chelsea bought Enzo Fernandez may sway the Neves decision
Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat is one option but the Italian club aren’t keen on a loan deal because they want a permanent fee. They would consider a loan deal with an obligation to buy.
Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch, also wanted by Liverpool, is another possibility but he has agreed personal terms with the Anfield club.
