‘One of the best’ midfielders in the world has rejected a new contract offer after Arsenal showed interest, according to a recent report.
Mikel Arteta’s men came close to pipping Manchester City to the Premier League title but ultimately came up just short by two points.
The onus will be to go one better next term and finally become league champions again for the first time since 2004.
To do that, Arteta will need to be backed in the window and it seems one target could become available after rejecting a new deal.
Joao Neves rejects Benfica contract
According to Record, via The Standard, Benfica midfielder Joao Neves has rejected a new contract offer from club president Rui Costa.
The 19-year-old is regarded as ‘one of the best’ midfielders in the world and is attracting interest from a number of clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
Arsenal have been heavily linked with him, as have Manchester United, so doing a deal certainly won’t be easy.
Further, Benfica are only willing to open negotiations starting from £85m which may deter The Gunners.
Arsenal should consider other targets
Neves could cost around £100m even after snubbing Benfica’s contract proposal.
The 2004-born remains under contract at the Portuguese outfit until 2028, so the club are in a strong negotiating position.
Perhaps Martin Zubamendi would be a better alternative that’d cost nearly half the price.
The 25-year-old is more experienced, too, which could be more beneficial in Arsenal’s challenge for the league title next term.
A telling summer awaits.