Man Utd 'especially' want to sign 'excellent' midfielder, could replace Casemiro - report

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

The Red Devils have been fancied 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 that the 19-year-old could be one of those leaving Benfica this summer.

It is added that United ‘especially’ are interested in his services and they are ‘very determined’ to bring him to Old Trafford ahead of next season.

The teenager currently has a release clause worth €120 million (£102m) in his deal. It appears that Benfica will use it as a reference for negotiations.

Neves would be a statement signing for United

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

He has been brilliant from the defensive midfield role this term with a passing accuracy of 90 per cent.

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 his signature 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 a lot of competition.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com