Liverpool launch an enquiry for Benfica’s rising star Joao Neves
Liverpool are yet to make any noteworthy signings this summer despite pre-season set to get underway soon. Arne Slot, however, is expected to be backed in the transfer market and it only seems imminent that a marquee transfer could be on the horizon with the Premier League giants having been linked with a host of big names from across Europe.
Mirror UK has reported that the Reds have lodged an enquiry into signing Benfica starlet Joao Neves ahead of the 2024-25 season. Manchester United are also in the running for the 19-year-old, who has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the Portuguese giants and is therefore linked with a transfer to one of the continent’s bigger clubs.
Neves has a release clause worth £102 million in his contract and it is unlikely that Benfica will be ready to negotiate a cheaper amount given that the player has a contract with them until June 2028. On the contrary, they are already planning to offer him a renewal to fend off interest though nothing is set in stone in that regard.
Joao Neves made 55 appearances for Benfica in all competitions last season and is incredibly important for them even at a young age. Hence, it is no surprise that his club wants to offer him a better deal. And with that said, there is also no surprise why two of the Premier League’s most successful clubs are interested in him.
The teenager, who was also part of Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad, would be a fantastic addition to the Reds in spite of the humongous price tag. At 19, he comfortably has more than a decade of football ahead of him and would be a long-term solution to the defensive midfield position at Liverpool, which has been vacant since Fabinho’s departure.
Neves had previously claimed that he idolises Argentine international Pablo Aimar. Should he possess half the football intelligence of his hero, the Reds could land themselves a difference-maker in the middle of the park.
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Neves’ signing would also allow Alexis Mac Allister to play in an advanced attacking position. However, Benfica are strong negotiators who never relent in their asking price. Liverpool will need to pay a steep price to land Neves but should he develop as expected, it could prove to be a snip in the long run.
