Manchester United look like finally steps are being taken to make moves during this summer transfer window.
For Ineos, this summer represents a chance to stamp their authority onto Manchester United as the new era begins at Old Trafford.
There are big moves expected, both in and out of Carrington, with some huge sales to the likes of Casemiro already becoming hot transfer conversations.
But for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co, this summer will be all about showing the world they are running a proper footballing institution, as opposed to a continued mess akin to The Glazers.
Some of the world’s best talents have been linked with United in recent weeks, with none being more exciting than Joao Neves, who was in action for Portugal alongside Bruno Fernandes.
Joao Neves shines for Portugal
During Portugal’s 4-2 win over Finland on Tuesday, Neves played the entire game and he absolutely dominated midfield and at just 19, showed exactly why Ineos would be so keen on him.
FotMob handed Neves a match rating of 8.3 and when looking at his stats from the game it’s crystal clear to see why this was the case.
Dictating play from deep, while also being a defensively sound midfielder with legs, Neves ticks a lot of boxes for United and although he isn’t perfect right now, his potential is boundless.
Neves was quite clearly one of Portugal’s best players in this game, and it comes just days following the reported United bid of £51m being submitted to sign him from Benfica.
Neves has a release clause of £105m which is a fee likely beyond what United will be able to pay this summer, with various other positions to address.
However, with a bid of £51m being refused, it’s unlikely things stop there and it’s thought £85m could actually be enough to get the deal done.
Ineos better be watching as Neves is perfect for Manchester United
Signing a player like Neves is as United a signing as you can get, the brightest prospect from Portugal belongs at Old Trafford just as Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani have done before him.
Neves as a player is probably up there alongside Kobbie Mainoo as the most exciting U20 midfielder right now in the world, so imagine if they were paired.
The duo aren’t a natural fit together as both would rather be on the ball, however with Mainoo’s physicality a major strength, mixed with Neves’ tenacity and ability to cover ground relentlessly, it could be a match made in heaven and a match which could sort United’s midfield out for over a decade.
As a pivot, the pair of teenagers would have to mature quickly, but if anyone can do it, it is these two special talents. Pairing them has appeared to be a priority for Ineos with several reported meetings with Neves’ agents already.
Neves’ latest performance is just another reminder of that and we imagine this won’t be the last we hear of him this summer.