Manchester United 'planning to sign one of Joao Neves, Antonio Silva next summer'

Manchester United are reportedly hopeful of signing at least one of Benfica duo Joao Neves and Antonio Silva during next summer's transfer window.

Neves, 19, and Silva, 20, are regarded as two of the best young talents in world football, with Benfica expected to find it difficult to keep hold of them on a long-term basis.

Man United continue to be heavily linked with midfielder Neves, and it is understood that they have scouted the Portugal international on a number of occasions.

Neves, also thought to be wanted by Manchester City and Bayern Munich, has been a key player for Benfica this season, scoring once and providing one assist in 19 appearances in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Silva is also a key player for the Portuguese outfit, playing 17 times in 2023-24, scoring once, and he is widely viewed to be among the best young centre-backs in the world.

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According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, Man United are interested in both players, and they are planning to sign at least one of them during next summer's transfer window.

Plettenberg claims that Silva is 'the top target', with the Portugal international, who has also been linked with Real Madrid, having a release clause of €100m (£86.5m).

Benfica are allegedly keen to keep Neves for at least one more year, with a departure in the summer of 2025 seen as more likely.

A new centre-back is expected to be a priority for the Red Devils next summer, as Raphael Varane is set to move on, with the ex-France international dropping down the pecking order at Old Trafford.

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Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans only have contracts with Man United until next June, although the former is expected to have a 12-month extension in his deal activated.

Harry Maguire was heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford over the summer, but he has worked his way back into the side in recent weeks and is now set to stay at the club.

Man United are also preparing to overhaul their midfield next year, with Casemiro potentially being allowed to move on amid interest from Saudi Arabia.

Donny van de Beek is also set to leave, while Sofyan Amrabat is only on loan from Fiorentina, and a permanent deal for the Morocco international is far from certain.

Neves has made 39 appearances for Benfica, scoring twice and registering two assists, while Silva six goals in 61 appearances for his Portuguese outfit.