Joao Neves: PSG Edges Closer to Signing Benfica Star, Leaving Man United and Man City in the Dust
Manchester United and Manchester City have been dealt a significant blow in their pursuit of Benfica’s rising star, Joao Neves. Reports from Portugal suggest that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is close to securing the 19-year-old midfielder, a priority target for the French giants.
United, long-term admirers of Neves, viewed him as a potential successor to Casemiro. They have reportedly had two substantial offers turned down by Benfica: an initial bid of £51 million and a second bid of £59 million. Meanwhile, City has shown interest but has yet to make a formal bid. Despite this, Neves is expected to make a high-profile move this transfer window after breaking into Benfica’s first team last season.
Benfica Lowers Asking Price Amid PSG’s Pursuit
Neves has a release clause of approximately €120 million (£100 million). However, Benfica has reportedly lowered this asking price, as no club has come close to meeting the release clause. PSG has made a new offer of €70 million, which may include add-ons, and negotiations have advanced significantly. According to Diario de Noticias, “PSG have made Joao Neves a priority for the new season and want to complete a deal in the next days. Both clubs are close to an agreement.”
Neves, currently on holiday, is waiting for instructions from super-agent Jorge Mendes. The young midfielder is reportedly excited about the prospect of moving to Paris, where he can earn a salary three to four times higher than his current earnings at Benfica, which stands at €1 million gross per season.
Benfica’s Financial Strategy and Neves’ Future
Benfica’s president, Rui Costa, has always maintained that the club needs to sell players to balance the books. Over the last decade, Benfica has consistently made significant profits from player sales, often exceeding €100 million in the summer market. Neves’ transfer is seen as part of this ongoing strategy.
Record reports that Neves is “one step away from swapping Benfica for PSG.” The player prefers a move to the French champions over Manchester United, partly due to PSG coach Luis Enrique’s efforts to secure his signature and his willingness to give young players opportunities. “Negotiations between Benfica and PSG have advanced in the last hours,” notes Record.
Potential Player Swap Involving Renato Sanches
O Jogo adds another layer to the unfolding transfer saga by suggesting a possible player swap. Renato Sanches, currently at PSG, could return to Benfica as part of the deal. “Joao Neves’ transfer to PSG is edging close to being completed,” confirms O Jogo. “The three parties, the player, Benfica, and the French club, are discussing the deal that could be completed soon.”
Despite the €120 million release clause, the deal is likely to be around €70 million, with Sanches possibly heading back to Benfica. This move would see PSG offloading one of their surplus players while acquiring one of Europe’s most promising young talents.
Conclusion
As PSG moves closer to finalizing the transfer of Joao Neves, Manchester United and Manchester City are left reconsidering their options. The young star’s impending move to Paris underscores the competitive nature of the transfer market and the strategic decisions clubs must make to secure top talent. With Neves potentially joining PSG, fans will be eager to see how he adapts to life in Ligue 1 and contributes to the French champions’ ambitions.
