How Joao Neves fits into Manchester United’s dream XI with five new signings

Manchester United will already have an eye on the business that will need to be done during the summer transfer window.

The 2023/24 season has largely been a disappointment for United, although there is still a chance to end the campaign with silverware in the form of the FA Cup. In the Premier League, however, the Reds are in eighth place and risk missing out on European qualification altogether.

Erik ten Hag’s future as a manager has been the subject of speculation. Despite the uncertainty, United continue to be linked with several potential new signings.

Benfica midfielder Joao Neves is the latest player to be linked with a move to Old Trafford. Portuguese news outlet Record report that United are preparing to make a move for Neves official this summer, although an offer has yet to be made.

Neves is said to have a €120m (£103m) release clause in his contract with Benfica. However, it is unclear whether United should activate the clause to get a deal over the line or negotiate a lower fee with Benfica.

READ MORE: Manchester United ready to ‘move forward’ on Joao Neves transfer with Casemiro’s decision

READ MORE: Manchester United interested in Brazilian mainstay in bid to solve defensive crisis

Should Neves be signed by United, then he could take over the starting 6 midfield role, which is currently held by Casemiro. If a deal gets over the line then it could be the start of the Reds shaping their dream starting line-up for next season.

Neves is not the only player to be linked with United ahead of the summer transfer window. Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong has also been linked as a potential target and would take up the right-back role if he were to move to Old Trafford.

Juventus defender Gleison Bremer is a target for United as they consider reinforcements at centre-back. The Brazilian is one of several central defensive targets for United, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba also being considered by the club’s hierarchy.

Neves would take his place in the role no. 6 if he was signed by United this summer. He could be joined by captain Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, who has enjoyed an impressive campaign for the Reds.

The forward line could also undergo some changes. Rasmus Hojlund is the forward signed for United’s future, while Alejandro Garnacho is also seen as a player with a long-term future at Old Trafford. That leaves the team’s right-wing department, which is currently handled by Antony and Garnacho, in the latter’s case, when Marcus Rashford gets the nod.

Crystal Palace star Michael Olise has been heavily linked with a move to United for several months. If the Reds decide to bring Olise to Old Trafford, then he could take over the right-wing role from next season.

United dream line-up for 2024/25: Onana; Frimpong, Bremer, Branthwaite, Dalot; Neves, Fernandes, Mainoo; Olise, Hojlund, Garnacho