Manchester United’s bid for the Portuguese star has been rejected

Joao Neves’ stunning displays in midfield have made him a transfer target for clubs across Europe and everyone is desperate to do a deal for him. But negotiating with SL Benfica will be no easy task, as Manchester United learned in their recent pursuit of the 19-year-old.

According to reports from Portuguese publication Record (via Sport Witness ), Manchester United have submitted a £51m bid for Joao Neves. However, Benfica considered the offer too low and immediately rejected it. The Portuguese club are only willing to do business with offers of around £85m. The encouraging news for potential suitors is that this sum is less than Neves’ release clause, which is around £102m. The youngster is also being followed by other European powers such as Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and PSG.

It is quite doubtful that United can pay such a large sum to get Neves, as they are not in their strongest financial position in recent times. The club’s cost-cutting measures under Sir Jim Ratcliffe have attracted attention and it remains to be seen how far they will go to sign the youngster. Perhaps selling a few first team players can bring them some much needed funds.

The future of Manchester United’s midfielder is currently in turmoil as their players are linked with moves to other clubs. Reports linking Casemiro to a Saudi move have emerged in recent times. Caught offside, Al Nassr are prepared to pay £76-85m for the 32-year-old midfielder. If such an offer arrives, United would sell Casemiro without any hesitation.

But the more worrying news is that Bruno Fernandes is linked with other clubs, especially Bayern Munich. According to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, the German club have started talks with the United captain’s representatives. Bruno was instrumental in helping United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final.

Manchester United fans would dream of seeing Neves alongside Mainoo and Bruno in midfield next season. They would be devastated if their captain left for greener pastures.