Diogo Jota has given the green light for Liverpool to push ahead with one reported target this summer.
Jota is currently gearing up for Euro 2024 with Portugal and has scored two goals in two pre-tournament friendly games.
Having had the end of his season badly curtailed with injury, it’s been pleasing to see the Liverpool man back on the pitch doing what he does best; scoring goals.
After another frustrating campaign at Anfield, Jota will be hoping to impress Arne Slot with a positive showing in Germany.
However, it may not only be the Reds’ No.20 who Slot has his eye on in Roberto Martinez’s squad. Several of Jota’s compatriots are now being linked with moves to Merseyside.
Diogo Jota hails Joao Neves quality
Portugal will be one of the favourites to win the Euros next month. They have quality bristling throughout their squad.
Now 27, Jota is an experienced player in what is a relatively young group, albeit sprinkled with veterans like Cristiano Ronaldo and, remarkably, Pepe.
Several of the younger members of the group have been rumoured to be on the way to join Jota at Anfield.
Goncalo Inacio is perhaps a name most Liverpool supporters will by now be familiar with. It has been claimed once again this week that the Reds will trigger Inacio’s release clause after the summer tournament is finished.
READ MORE: Liverpool place ‘phenomenal’ Goncalo Inacio at the top of their transfer shortlist
Fellow centre-back Antonio Silva is another said to be on Liverpool’s radar, although those links have dried up in recent months.
Finally, Liverpool have also been claimed to be looking at signing Silva’s Benfica teammate Joao Neves.
And when asked by Goal on TikTok to name one young player ‘everyone should watch out for’ it was Neves who came to Jota’s mind.
“Joao Neves,” replied the 27-year-old. “He has the quality and the mindset to go really far.”
What’s the latest on Liverpool and Joao Neves?
Neves really does look like being a future superstar. Despite being just 19, he’s already a regular starter for Benfica and a fixture in the national team.
From a Liverpool point of view, Neves could be exactly what they need to finally complete their midfield rebuild.
Although he’s quite a short player, the teenager is a tough tackler and an excellent user of the ball. No wonder Neves has caught Liverpool’s eye.
Unfortunately, the youngster is said to have a huge release clause in his Benfica contract. Liverpool would have to pay over £100m to trigger it.
Nevertheless, the latest is that the Portuguese side have reportedly accepted that they may have to sell Neves this summer in order to balance the books.
With Jota’s testimony in hand, Liverpool should be right in the mix.