In a stunning turn of events, Manchester United have been dealt a major blow in their pursuit of Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, as the Eagles’ president announced that he is set to join Paris Saint-Germain. The 19-year-old sensation has been making waves in the football world with his impressive performances for Benfica, having already made 75 appearances for the club.
Neves has notched up four goals and three assists from his midfield position, helping Benfica to the 2022-23 Primeira Liga title and this year’s Portuguese Super Cup. His standout performances caught the eye of the national team selectors, earning him a spot in Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad, where he made two appearances as they reached the quarter-finals.
Manchester United had been considered frontrunners to sign Neves, especially after he signed a new deal with Benfica until 2028, which included a staggering release clause of around £101m. However, the Red Devils eventually had to back off as Paris Saint-Germain swooped in with a reported €70m (£59.7m) deal for the talented midfielder.
Benfica president Rui Costa confirmed the transfer, stating, “Yes, it’s all done. It’s sad to see Joao leaving us; he’s a top player and top guy, but we can’t reject a €70m package as of today. It’s simple, we can’t say no.” Costa also debunked rumors about the release clause, saying, “I never said that Joao Neves would only leave for his €120 million (£101 million) release clause, and therefore, those claims are false.”
Despite missing out on Neves, Manchester United may still benefit from the situation. The club’s focus on signings like Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro allowed PSG to swoop in for Neves, potentially opening the door for the Red Devils to pursue Manuel Ugarte. With both players comfortable in the number six role, PSG may be more willing to sell Ugarte, who has reportedly agreed personal terms with United amid claims that a deal could be struck for around £51m.
As the football world reels from the news of Joao Neves’s move to Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United will be looking to regroup and potentially capitalize on the situation by strengthening their midfield with the acquisition of Manuel Ugarte. Only time will tell how this transfer saga will unfold for all parties involved.
