Benfica clears the air on player’s move to Man Utd

Benfica in a recent statement have dismissed reports that Manchester United have held talks with them over a potential deal for Joao Neves.

The reports emerged last weekend that the Red Devils are keen to open negotiations with Benifac’s representatives to discuss the availability of the 19-year-old midfielder.

Neves is considered one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders and a first-team regular for Benfica ever since former teammate Enzo Fernandez left the club to join Chelsea in a reported £107m deal in January last year.

Neves, who has made a total of 49 first-team appearances for Benfica has a contract that runs until June 2028, which includes a €120m (£103m) release clause.

Benfica have stated clearly that they are not in for negotiations or offers for the midfielder.

An official statement from Benfica released on Tuesday read: “Sport Lisboa e Benfica denies the existence of any right of preference over its player Joao Neves.

“Under no circumstances did Sport Lisboa e Benfica enter into talks with Manchester United or any other club about this player from their formation – nor does it intend to do so – so any information that points in another direction is false.”