Romano makes Joao Neves guarantee: Man Utd target will move next week

Tom Weber

Updated: 27 Jul 2024 20:50 BST
3 min read

Manchester United will officially miss out on Joao Neves next week, according to Fabrizio Romano.

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The Red Devils were one of the Benfica wonderkid's earliest big-name suitors, first emerging as an interested club last summer. Six months earlier, the teenager had been plunged into the deep end following Enzo Fernandez's move to Chelsea, but he quickly established himself as a key player.

Due to how easily the 19-year-old managed to come to grips with football at the highest level, Man Utd took an interest in him but ultimately refrained from making a move.

However, their attraction to Neves has persisted over the past 12 months, with many scouting missions watching the youngster in action in Lisbon. It was initially thought that the Portugal international would be unattainable this summer due to his €120 million release clause, but this does not appear to be the case.

Benfica have ostensibly softened their stance and are willing to negotiate a price for him - but Man Utd are not involved in the talks.

PSG to land Neves

Despite their long-standing interest, Man Utd are still refraining from engaging in talks with Neves and Benfica, which has allowed PSG to swoop for the midfielder.

Talks have progressed in recent days and the French giants are closing in on a deal to sign him. Fabrizio Romano has now guaranteed that Neves will become a PSG player next week.

The Ligue 1 champions are set to pay just €70m for the Benfica man, while also including unwanted midfielder Renato Sanches in the package to sweeten the deal for their Portuguese counterparts. Neves is keen on making the move to the Parc des Princes and linking up with Luis Enrique.

In positive news for the Red Devils, PSG signing Neves means that they will be more prepared to sell Manuel Ugarte, Man Utd's top target for the midfield position, though it remains to be seen how much they will budge from their €70m valuation.