Manchester United are gearing up to make a substantial bid to secure the signature of Benfica’s highly coveted midfielder Joao Neves this summer. The Red Devils aim to outmaneuver Manchester City in this intense transfer race, potentially thwarting the ambitions of both Pep Guardiola and Bernardo Silva.
Ambitious Plans at Old Trafford
Following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a 27.7% stake in Manchester United, the INEOS chief is set on revitalizing the club. Ratcliffe, who now holds full sporting control, has grand plans to transform United’s fortunes, aiming to strengthen the team’s core with significant signings. His strategy involves bringing in a central defender, a midfielder, a new striker, and a right-sided attacker. This comprehensive overhaul is intended to challenge the dominance of rivals Liverpool and Manchester City in the Premier League.
Financial Adjustments and Strategic Sacrifices
To comply with the Premier League’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, United will need to offload high earners. Players like Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane, who collectively earn £590,000 a week, are likely candidates for departure. Additionally, the sale of Aaron Wan-Bissaka could result in a substantial financial hit, but these sacrifices are deemed necessary for the club’s long-term success.
Aiming for Quality Over Quantity
Dan Ashworth, United’s sporting director, along with technical director Jason Wilcox, is tasked with ensuring the club signs the right players without overpaying. The past experiences of being seen as easy targets in the transfer market, exemplified by the high fees paid for Lisandro Martinez and Antony, are lessons they aim to heed. United’s focus is now firmly on acquiring high-quality players who can significantly impact the squad.
Joao Neves: The Rising Star
Joao Neves has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders, earning praise from his compatriot and United captain, Bruno Fernandes. The 19-year-old has already made 75 senior appearances for Benfica and has been capped six times by Portugal. With a release clause of €120 million (£102.1 million) in his contract, securing his transfer will be challenging.
Manchester United’s Bold Move
United’s initial bid of €60 million (£51.1 million) for Neves was swiftly rejected by Benfica. However, reports indicate that the club is preparing an improved offer, potentially raising the bid to €75 million (£63.9 million) with additional performance-based add-ons. This revised bid aims to secure Neves’ transfer before Benfica can extend his contract and increase his release clause to €150 million.
Rival Interest from Manchester City
Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, is also keen on bringing Neves to the Etihad Stadium. Bernardo Silva, a key figure at City, has expressed his admiration for Neves, stating, “As a Portuguese and a player I like, I’d like to see him alongside me. But I want the best for him.” Silva emphasized Neves’ qualities, adding, “Joao Neves is already convincing because of the way he works and the energy he brings to the game.”
The Road Ahead
As both Manchester clubs vie for Joao Neves, the stakes are incredibly high. United’s urgency to secure the young talent is palpable, given Benfica’s intentions to renegotiate Neves’ contract and City’s interest. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining where the promising midfielder will continue his career.
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