Nemanja Matic sends Joao Neves transfer message amid Manchester United links

Former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has advised Joao Neves to stay at Benfica for now amid reports linking him with a move to Old Trafford.

United, who are set to face Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley on Sunday, are set to be in the mix for a new defensive midfielder next summer. Casemiro, now 31, has regressed at an alarming rate this season and needs to be replaced.

According to a report from Portugal earlier this week, United have installed 19-year-old Neves as their top target for the summer. A report also claimed that United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had ‘met’ Neves’ agent – who is renowned ‘super agent’ Jorge Mendes – to ‘discuss’ the possibility of a transfer for the youngster.

READ MORE: United get injury boost ahead of FA Cup clash with Coventry

READ MORE: United face £86m decision amid ‘blockbuster’ double links.

Neves has excelled for Benfica this season, making 50 appearances in all competitions and contributing three goals. Although he is primarily a defensive midfielder, he can also function as a box-to-box midfielder.

Widely regarded as one of the most exciting midfielders in Europe, links with clubs of United’s stature come as little surprise. However, former United star Matic – who spent five years at Old Trafford between 2017 and 2022 – believes it would be in the youngster’s best interests to continue his development at Benfica for the time being.

“I think it’s too early for him to take that step of leaving,” Matic told Portuguese newspaper O Jogo. “If I were him, I would stay a few more years at Benfica to play in the Champions League and mature more.

“I’m sure his time will come, so there’s no need to rush. Joao is already at a big club at the moment.

“I’m sure his future at Benfica will be very good. I think it’s too early to leave, but of course, in the end, it’s always his decision.”

Neves, who started all six of Benfica’s Champions League games earlier this season, has been heavily linked with a move to United in recent weeks. Last month United captain Bruno Fernandes, who spent time with the youngster on international duty, said he was “ready” to make the jump to a big club.

Fernandes said: “I don’t know if the United rumors are true, but I know he’s ready for that big jump. He’s an excellent player, he’s with the national team. And that’s why the big clubs are chasing him.”