Fernandes gives Man Utd green light on "quality" transfer as scouts track target
Bruno Fernandes has given the thumbs up to Manchester United to complete a deal for Benfica starlet Joao Neves.
The Red Devils have already been linked with a move for the Portuguese midfielder ahead of the January transfer window. United scouts have already been keeping a close eye on the 19-year-old this season.
It was suggested that they scouted him earlier this month as Benfica took on fierce rivals Sporting Lisbon - Neves doing his chances of a move no harm after scoring a last-minute equaliser. Now, United captain Fernandes has given his approval to a move for his Portugal team-mate.
"It has to be the Man United coach who says whether he has a place or not,” Fernandes told Sport TV while on international duty. “He's a great player, I don't know if he would have a place or not. It depends on the coach and his ideas.
“But he's an excellent player and an excellent kid, very professional, You will have a bright future wherever you go. I would really like to have him by my side. Because he has quality and will have a bright future. It depends on him. What I want most is the best for him."
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After making his breakthrough into the Benfica first-team, Neves has gone on to make 38 appearances for the Portuguese giants. He has scored twice for the club.
Man United have been scouting Joao Neves this season (Getty Images)Would Joao Neves be a good signing for Man United? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Neves has just under five years remaining on his contract at the Estadio da Luz. The youngster has already spoken out on his affection for his current club.
Speaking to Benfica’s official website, he said: "This passion has expanded over the years, due to everything that Benfica has given me as a person and a player. I owe everything to Benfica, Benfica owes me nothing. I just have to thank and I thank you by giving everything I have something to give, being a better player and person.”
“Being a Benfica fan is already a way of life. It's waking up Benfica and sleeping Benfica. Giving everything, being joyful, living life to the fullest. I go to the arena to watch various games; I like watching different sports. Benfica is not just football. Playing for Benfica was the dream I always had."
Should he move to Old Trafford, Neves would become the latest in a growing Portuguese contingent currently at United. Diogo Dalot and Fernandes are already key members of Ten Hag’s squad.
He would also become the club’s third midfield signing of the season. Mason Mount was recruited from Chelsea but has endured a tricky start to life at Old Trafford, while Sofyan Amrabat was also signed on loan from Fiorentina.
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