Man Utd 'advance' to sign £86m wonderkid with Casemiro 'expected' to leave - report
Manchester United are ready to ‘advance’ for the signing of Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves with Casemiro expected to leave this summer, according to Record.
The Red Devils are likely to sign a new defensive midfielder during the summer transfer window following the disappointing performances of Casemiro this season.
The Brazilian has shown signs of regression during the ongoing campaign and Record (page 11) claim that the 32-year-old is expected to leave for Saudi Arabia.
Neves has been identified as a priority to rejuvenate the club’s midfield. The hierarchy have reserved a budget of €100 million (£86m) to secure the services of the 19-year-old.
Despite the uncertainty over manager Erik ten Hag’s future, United’s board do not want to waste time and promise an ‘energetic intervention’ this summer to ‘rebuild the squad’ and make it ‘more competitive’.
United can make big statement by signing Neves
Neves has developed into one of the most sought-after young midfielders in world football.
The youngster has a pass completion rate of 90 per cent this term with almost six duels won per game.
He has also registered two successful tackles and 6.3 ball recoveries per outing for Benfica.
At such a young age, Neves has shown a lot of maturity. He would be a perfect foil for Kobbie Mainoo.
We believe Mainoo is better suited in the number eight role and Neves could play behind him.
Neves is only 174cms in height, but he has won 58 per cent of his aerial challenges with his incredible leap.
The teenager also possesses a tireless work rate and he has all the qualities to succeed at United.
Our only concern is whether United can afford to pay £86m to sign him amid their financial issues.
The club may need some player sales before making such a huge outlay on Benfica’s prized asset.
Stats from Sofascore.com