Manchester United are now preparing a bid to sign someone Arsenal scouts have been closely monitoring this season.
The Red Devils have a lot of work to do this summer, as Monday’s humbling 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace emphasised just how many weak points there are in Erik ten Hag’s squad.
In light of that humiliation in south London, Manchester United are now set to make an offer for a player wanted by Arsenal…
Arsenal target Joao Neves set to be subject of Manchester United bid
A story from Record in Portugal claims that Benfica No.87 Joao Neves is now set to be the subject of a bid from Manchester United.
The Portuguese news outlet state that Casemiro has been deemed surplus to requirements by INEOS and is likely to make a switch to the Saudi Pro League, with the Portugal international Manchester United’s choice to replace the Brazilian.
It comes after 90min claimed that Arsenal scouts have been watching Neves closely this season, and would jump at the chance to sign the 19-year-old if he became available.
Benfica have placed a £104m release clause in the teenager’s contract, and are likely to refer Manchester United to that figure as Record claim the Portuguese giants do not want to sell this summer.
The Primeira Liga outfit are said to be more open to selling Antonio Silva, a central defender who Record claim Manchester United are also hoping to sign.
INEOS will have to be persuasive
Even if Benfica do agree to sell Neves – who Bruno Fernandes rates highly – this summer, INEOS will have to be very persuasive in order to fend off Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta looks set to have a hole in his midfield department amid doubts over the futures of both Jorginho and Thomas Partey this summer – the Italy international could join Juventus when his contract expires, while the Ghana international is wanted by Saudi Pro League sides.
Therefore, regular playing time is likely to be on the table for Neves.
Arsenal can – of course – also offer Neves UEFA Champions League football, whereas Manchester United may not even qualify for any European competition this season.
Therefore, INEOS will have to deliver a very persuasive pitch to the teenager, if they are to lure him to Old Trafford.