(Football news) After making his senior team debut for his boyhood club, Neves progressed through the ranks at Benfica and has since played 75 games, contributing three assists and four goals.
Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, disclosed last week that the team had received a formal bid for the 19-year-old emerging star, who has drawn similarities to Rodri, the winner of the 2024 Euro. Costa also acknowledged that the £101 million release clause in Neves’ contract this summer might not be met by a sale.
PSG closing in on Neves’ signature
While the Benfica president did not mention who the interested party was, widespread reports suggested the PSG had made signing Neves their main priority this summer.
The Ligue 1 champions were also believed to have enquired about signing the 19-year-old earlier in the transfer window but were unwilling to meet his release clause.
Both the clubs have had a round of positive discussions today, and the French champions are now aiming to finalise a deal for the midfielder next week.
The report adds that Les Parisiens are discussing an offer which would see them pay around £60m in cash, while also including Renato Sanches in the deal.
It is understood that the PSG have already made contact with Neves, who has confirmed his interest in joining the club, and has agreed on personal terms.
The Portugal international’s current contract at the Estadio da Luz runs until the completion of the 2027-28 league season.
Neves to PSG spells good news for Manchester United’s Ugarte hopes
Manchester United have been pushing ahead with their transfer plans this summer since the completion of the Euros, with Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro arriving at Old Trafford in the last few weeks.
Manchester United were reportedly considering a move for Neves earlier this summer but have since turned their focus to PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte.
Thus, PSG’s reported progress in signing Neves is likely to excite the United board, as it may suggest that Les Parisiens will be open to allowing Ugarte to leave this summer.
Ugarte’s agent Jorge Mendes, who also represents Yoro, is believed to be pushing for his client to secure a move to Old Trafford in the near future.
Also read: Manchester United are set to keep their defender at Old Trafford
