Arsenal Joins Chelsea and Manchester United in Transfer Race For Benfica Star

Arsenal has reportedly entered the highly contested £102m race to secure the signature of Benfica’s promising defensive midfielder, Joao Neves, in the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to Record, elite European clubs are eyeing Neves as they seek to bolster their midfield options. Manchester United initiated the race with an official bid of €60m (£51.23m), swiftly rejected by Benfica, who values Neves highly.

The Portuguese club’s president, Rui Costa, has praised Neves as a ‘natural leader’. Neves’s talents have attracted interest from top clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, PSG, and Bayern Munich.

Benfica has made it clear that they will not entertain offers below €100m (£85.38m) and ideally want Neves to stay for another season or be sold for his release clause of €120m (£102.46m). Now, journalist Fabrizio Romano’s latest report reveals Arsenal’s interest in Neves.

Arsenal’s scouts have been closely monitoring the midfielder for months, alongside United and City. However, Benfica’s stance remains firm – a bid of €120m or no deal. Mikel Arteta aims to reinforce his squad this summer, particularly considering the uncertain future of Thomas Partey.

Neves has been a key figure for Benfica this season, making 55 appearances and scoring three goals. His impressive performances have earned him a call-up to the Portugal squad for the upcoming European Championships in Germany.