Liverpool look set to ramp things up in the transfer market as the summer gets underway.
The Reds are usually sticklers for getting business done early and as a result we can hope to see some movement in the coming weeks.
It has already been claimed that Arne Slot will be keen to get signings done sooner rather than later as he starts work at Liverpool.
That’s easier said than done of course, especially with Euro 2024 and the Copa America being played this summer.
Although the tournaments will mean the AXA Training Centre is a little depleted early into Slot’s reign, the Dutch coach is reportedly attempting to buy a player who could be a breakout star of the competition.
Liverpool pushing for Joao Neves signing
So far, it seems likely that Liverpool will be targeting at least two positions to strengthen in their first-team squad this summer.
Firstly, a new centre-back is a priority. News has emerged over this week that Goncalo Inacio is still very much on the Reds’ radar, for example.
Secondly, Liverpool seem intent on adding a new forward option, too. Crysencio Summerville looks like one to keep an eye on in that respect.
Those two areas aside though, plenty of supporters would argue that another midfielder is needed as well.
And with that in mind, Portuguese outlet O Jogo report that Liverpool are one of the sides ‘greedily’ pushing ahead with interest in Benfica’s Joao Neves.
Benfica have previously been reported as being desperate to keep Neves, who has a release clause of around £102m in his contract.
And while O Jogo report that that remains the case, they also claim that Benfica know they must sell a big asset to balance the books this summer.
Interest in Neves is said to have been ‘reinforced’ recently, meaning a sale could become necessary. Liverpool reportedly aren’t alone in their interest, though. Man United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and PSG are also claimed to be in the crowded race.
Joao Neves is not what Liverpool need
It’s no surprise to see Liverpool interested here. They’ve reportedly been watching Neves closely for a little while.
As a diminutive and tough tackling midfielder, the Portugal international is arguably exactly the kind of player the Reds have been missing.
Nevertheless, with other areas needing an upgrade too, we don’t think Neves should be a priority.
If he were available for a little cheaper, then perhaps that would be different. But we don’t think Liverpool can justify spending over £100m on one player when other areas need strengthening. Especially not on a 19-year-old.
It also isn’t in the FSG playbook to go over the odds on an emerging young player like Neves.
While he’s obviously a terrific player, we think the Reds should leave the other European heavyweights to slug it out over this one.