Manchester City identify Top Man United target as ideal replacement for Kevin de Bruyne after Second bid not accepted

Manchester City identify Top Man United target as ideal replacement for Kevin de Bruyne after Second bid not accepted

Man United are reportedly facing strong competition from Manchester City in their bid to sign Benfica Wonderkid Joao Neves.

João Neves is believed to be a prime target for United in their efforts to rejuvenate their midfield department.

It becomes more and more likely that Casemiro and Christian Eriksen will be leaving Old Trafford, and if they do, a replacement will almost definitely be required.

Additionally, it’s unclear if United will take advantage of the opportunity to finalize Sofyan Amrabat’s permanent signing with Fiorentina.

It makes sense for the Red Devils to pursue Neves when you take into account all of these factors as well as their desire to locate young Kobbie Mainoo the ideal partner.

Neves forced his way into the Portugal team for Euro 2024 after having an outstanding season with Benfica.

Before the Selecao were eliminated from the competition by France in, he made two appearances off the bench.

Benfica need to make a big sale to improve their financial situation and their most sellable asset is undoubtedly Neves, who has a release clause worth €120m in his contract.

It was stated that United’s opening offer for Neves – worth around €60m – was rejected by Benfica.

A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that a second improved bid from the 20-time English champions to the tune of €70m was also rebuffed, with the Liga NOS outfit once again pointing United to Neves’ astronomical release clause.

According to Sunday’s edition of O Jogo (via SportWitness), Neves is also on the radar of reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.

Neves “gains strength” at City, who view him as an ideal option to replace Kevin de Bruyne, who is flirting with the idea of completing a big-money switch to the Saudi Pro League.

O’Jogo note that Neves is a different type of player from De Bruyne but this is not exactly putting them off because he’s still young and is one for the future.

United have “taken concrete steps” and are ahead of City in the race for the Portuguese wonderkid.

Paris Saint-Germain have also been previously mentioned as an interested party in Neves