Benfica deny talks with Manchester United over Joao Neves

Benfica have released a statement denying that they are in talks with Manchester United over the potential transfer of Joao Neves.

The 19-year-old is impressing in Portugal and United are one of the many clubs linked with a move for the defensive midfielder, after watching him establish himself as a regular for Benfica, who currently sit second in the Primeira Liga.

Benfica are just one point behind leaders Sporting Lisbon. Neves has made 29 appearances across all competitions this season, and he will be aiming for a successful end to the 2023/24 season. It could be his final campaign with the Portuguese giants.

United should be in the market for a new defensive midfielder in the summer because we’ll need to find a replacement for Casemiro whether the Brazilian stays or moves on. Neves’ contract at the Estadio da Luz runs until the summer of 2028 and contains a buy-out clause worth £103m. That is a lot of money to splash on a defensive midfielder – especially one aged 19.

Despite the hefty transfer fee that Neves would warrant, reports emerged earlier this week that United will initiate talks with Benfica in order to bring Neves to Old Trafford.

However, Benfica have sent a clear message about speculation surrounding one of their biggest assets. It will take a sizeable fee for United to buy him but Benfica deny that talks have started.

“Under no circumstances did Sport Lisboa e Benfica enter into talks with Manchester United or any other club about this player from their formation – nor does it intend to do so – so any information that points in another direction is false,” the statement said, as per the Manchester Evening News.

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