Man Utd ‘especially’ want to sign ‘excellent’ midfielder, could replace Casemiro

Manchester United are very determined to sign Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves this summer, according to Portuguese publication Record.

The Red Devils have been tipped to recruit a new defensive midfielder amid the inconsistent performances of Casemiro this season.

Neves is one of the leading names on their wishlist and Record (page 10) claim the 19-year-old could leave Benfica this summer.

United are ‘especially’ interested in securing his services and ‘very determined’ to bring him to Old Trafford ahead of next season.

The teenager has a release clause worth €100 million (£85m) in his deal. Benfica will use it as a reference for negotiations.

Neves, who has been described as ‘excellent‘ by Bruno Fernandes, is one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Europe.

He has been brilliant in the defensive midfield role this term, with a passing accuracy of 90 percent.

The youngster has also won six duels and two tackles per league game alongside 6.4 ball recoveries.

Neves has shown maturity beyond his years, and he would be a statement signing for the Red Devils.

However, the big question is whether they can afford him during the next transfer window.

It has been claimed that the pre-sales budget could be only £35m after missing out on the Champions League.

Most of United’s summer business could depend on player sales. The club may not make a huge outlay on Neves.

Benfica previously accepted a long-term payment plan for Enzo Fernandez’s move to Chelsea.

The Red Devils may need something similar to sign Neves, but they will face plenty of competition.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.

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