Manchester United has intensified its pursuit of young talent, setting their sights on Benfica’s midfield prodigy, João Neves, in a bid to bolster their midfield ranks.

Reports from Portuguese outlet RECORD reveal United’s growing interest in the 19-year-old Benfica midfielder, substantiated by repeated scouting missions to witness Neves’s performances, with the latest being Benfica’s thrilling encounter against Sporting CP. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet. 

In a dramatic turn of events, Benfica emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, propelling them to the top of the league standings. United scouts were in attendance, solidifying their conviction about Neves’s potential as a valuable addition to their squad.

Fabrizio Romano corroborated the presence of United scouts at the match, underlining their interest. However, the English club’s prospective move hinges on the board’s decision regarding Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s involvement at Old Trafford.

Neves, a defensive midfielder, has swiftly established himself as a regular feature in Benfica’s lineup despite his tender age. His commendable progress since his debut last year has captured the attention of United, seeking a player with his profile to fortify their squad.

With rumors linking Casemiro to a move to Saudi Arabia, United is actively scouting for suitable replacements. Neves, with his skill set and potential, aligns with the profile sought by the Premier League giants as they strategize for the future.

Despite Neves being tied to Benfica until 2028, any potential bid from United would need to be substantial to sway the talented midfielder from Estádio da Luz, reflecting the club’s commitment to securing promising talent for their future endeavors. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.