What is Joao Neves' release clause at Benfica?
Cameron Smith
- 21 Nov 2023 11:21 GMT
- 3 min read
Benfica midfielder Joao Neves is seen as the next big talent to emerge from Portugal after his breakout in 2023.
The wonderkid made his senior international debut at just 19 years old after becoming an integral part of Benfica’s team following Enzo Fernandez’s €121 million move to Chelsea.
Manchester United are currently the leading club interested in signing the midfielder, with the Red Devils keen on adding Neves to bolster Erik ten Hag’s squad.
A move away from Benfica is seen as extremely unlikely during the January transfer window, as the Lisbon giants have “no intention” of offloading him mid-season. However, Neves could leave Benfica during the 2024 summer window if his release clause is activated.
Just like with the aforementioned Fernandez, Benfica have no desire to sell Neves and the only way to guarantee a bid will be accepted is to pay his release clause in full.
What is Joao Neves’ release clause?
Joao Neves’ release clause at Benfica is €120m.
It’s the same value as Enzo Fernandez’s release clause at Benfica before Chelsea opted to spend slightly more in order to split the fee into different payments.
Man City and Man Utd to battle for Joao Neves?
Man Utd’s interest in Neves will come as good news for Red Devils captain Bruno Fernandes, who recently stated that he would like the Benfica youngster to move to Old Trafford.
Fernandes told Sport TV Portugal: “It has to be the Man United coach who says whether he has a place or not. 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. He 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.”
However, Bernardo Silva is determined to prevent Neves joining Man Utd. “If I can, I will pull strings to João Neves to go to Man City,” he told B24PT. “I’d like to see João joining City instead of Man United, of course!”
