Benfica is one of the best teams in Portugal, often in the top two or three spots in Liga Portugal, the top tier of football in this tiny country. But, due to other countries having more players and highly-backed leagues – like Germany, France, England, and Italy – Portuguese players often get overlooked.
But, that might not be the case with one special midfielder who is currently playing excellently for Benfica in the Europa League and Liga Portugal. His creativity, passing, and dynamic movement make him a highly desirable player for any type of team in the world.
Those attributes are why Manchester United could come knocking at his door to add his traits to a struggling Premier League side for the 2024-2025 season.
Benfica Midfielder on His Way to England?
Manchester United are desperate to find new players who can bring a new lease on life to the struggling Red Devils’ side. United is currently in the middle of the PL table, sitting below teams like Newcastle United and Tottenham with just three games left in the year. If they don’t break into the top five, they will be unable to partake in the Champions League OR Europa League next year.
This is a huge upset for the biggest club in England. Along with a potential coaching change seeing Ten Hag leave, United is no doubt looking for transfers who can bring in more talent, energy, and passion to the team.
That is where Joao Neves comes into play.
Neves is a key cog in the machine for Benfica, so his sale to another team would drastically change the Portuguese team’s future – and Neves’ as well. Manchester United would have to fork over a $120 million release clause fee and be prepared to strongly negotiate with Benfica before the transfer is officially made.
The Brazilian is one of the main defensive players on United’s mind, filling a huge gap in the defensive midfield role for the English team that has been lacking since Casemiro is in and out of injury. He would play the desired No. 6 role for United, probably linked alongside Fernandes, the captain, and another midfielder of the manager’s choosing.
Manchester United Lineup Looking Forward
Work time, @MarcusRashford 💪 #MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/goxc82X7Jn
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 9, 2024
If Neves comes from Benfica to play as a holding central midfielder, there are still tons of changes that need to be made for United to stay competitive in the Premier League and have a more desirable season in 2024.
Holjund proved himself this past year as a fairly average transfer, showing his drive and passion to get better and work hard for his team. He could potentially keep his starting striker spot if there are no other already-established No. 9s in the mix.
Garnacho is an energetic and dynamic winger/striker who can come in as a sub for Holjund or start on the wing to bring pace, creativity, and dribbling skills. Rashford could make his way back into the starting eleven for Garnacho or Antony on the right wing, adding to the attacking department that struggled this year for United.
The midfield would ideally be Neves, Fernandes, and Mainoo to link up with one another, whereas the back line could contain Bremer, Dalot, Frimpong, and Braithwaite.
Only time will tell to see if United can nab Neves from Benfica to sort out their starting lineup moving into the next PL season.
Also Read: Olympic Football Paris 2024: How Exciting Does The Finalized Four Groups Look Like
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
