Manchester United 'ready to open transfer talks for Joao Neves'

Manchester United have reportedly stated their ambition to open talks with Benfica's representatives early this year over a move for Joao Neves.

Neves is set to be the next player to come off the everlasting Benfica conveyor belt of talent, following his breakout last season.

Despite being just 19-years-old, Neves is already a regular in the Benfica team under Roger Schmidt, as they currently lie second in the Primeira Liga.

That has led to Roberto Martinez handing the teenager his first Portugal caps in recent months.

Neves made his international bow against Bosnia-Herzegovina in October, before two more late substitute appearances against Liechtenstein and Iceland - all in Euro 2024 qualifying.

The Mirror claims that Man United are keen to get discussions underway about a possible transfer for one of Europe's most sought-after midfielders.

A deep-lying midfielder, known for his combative tackling and reading of the game, and passing ability, Neves has also proven capable of scoring goals on the big occasion.

Following a last-minute equaliser away to bitter rivals Sporting Lisbon which virtually secured the title last season, Neves was thrust into the spotlight as one of Benfica's biggest talents.

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The midfielder would then go on to repeat the feat in the derby back in November too, scoring another injury-time leveller against Sporting, before a 97th-minute Casper Tengstedt strike won the game in dramatic circumstances.

Neves is believed to have a €120m (£103m) release clause in his contract at the Estadio da Luz, which runs until 2028.

Unless that clause is met, it appears unlikely that Benfica will sell in January, following recent comments by manager Schmidt.

The German coach told reporters in his pre-match press conference before their Primeira Liga clash with Famalicao in late December that the club are not interested in selling either Neves or highly-rated defender Antonio Silva during this window.

"We are halfway through the season and we have big goals. We certainly won't let any of these players leave. We need them and no one wants to leave, so there's no question." Schmidt stated.

The report also states that Benfica are in advanced talks over the signing of young Man United left-back Alvaro Fernandez, a deal which could potentially strengthen relations between the clubs.

Fernandez has been on loan at Granada this campaign, after making 42 appearances for Preston North End last season.

The Portuguese club are said to be interested in taking over Fernandez's loan, before making the deal permanent in an £8.5m transfer in the summer.

Before getting any new deals done though, Benfica and Neves will be in action at home to Rio Ave in the league on Sunday evening.