As the transfer window prepares to open on Friday, Liverpool have been exceptionally quiet so far.
The Reds usually have a preference for getting their business done early. Alexis Mac Allister was signed on June the 8th last year, for example.
However, with Arne Slot trying to settle into life at the club, it makes sense that Liverpool would hold off a little. They’re still trying to figure out how Slot sees his Liverpool squad.
As well as the logistical issues of the head coach only just arriving, there’s also the matter of two summer international tournaments to contend with. Moving clubs is at the back of a lot of players minds.
Despite all of that though, it now looks as though FSG are readying a big move for a player who could light up Euro 2024.
Liverpool set to make bid for Joao Neves
Liverpool are arguably still to address the big issue of the last summer; the need for a long-term solution in defensive midfield.
The Red did of course sign Wataru Endo, who has by and large been a very good signing. But as the enormous bid to try and bring Moises Caicedo to Anfield showed, there’s money in the bank to truly go big on a player.
And according to Portuguese outlet CM Jornal, that’s exactly what Liverpool are about to do again.
Throughout the season, the Reds have been linked with a move for Benfica midfielder Joao Neves. Neves has even recently been talked up by Diogo Jota, of all people.
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With Liverpool scouts said to have been watching Neves excel for Benfica, CM Jornal claim that the Reds are now ready to make their move.
An offer from Anfield is reportedly set to arrive ‘in the coming days.’ Liverpool are said to have identified Neves as a priority target for the summer and will soon put forward a proposal to convince both Benfica and the 19-year-old.
It won’t be easy, though. It’s claimed that Benfica have already made it clear that they won’t accept anything less than Neves’ £101m release clause.
As well as Neves, Liverpool have reportedly put thought into signing Antonio Silva from the Portuguese giants, too.
Will Liverpool win Joao Neves race?
Although Liverpool did put down that massive offer Caicedo last year, it doesn’t feel likely that they’ll do the same again.
The Reds’ priorities are reportedly in defence this summer, not midfield. While Neves is undoubtedly a top quality player, is he really worth blowing the budget on?
Having said that, if Liverpool don’t do it, then it seems one of their rivals will. Man United have also been linked with Neves, while Man City’s Bernardo Silva has openly talked about bringing the Portugal international to the Etihad.
“For City instead of United? If I can, I will pull strings to Joao Neves to go to Man City,” Silva said via The Metro. “I’d like to see Joao joining City instead of Man United, of course.”
We still haven’t forgiven Bernardo for his refusal to give title-winners Liverpool a guard of honour in 2020. So, if for nothing more than upsetting the City man, we’d love to see this happen.
In all seriousness, Neves does look to be a superstar in the making. Maybe he’s the one Liverpool have been waiting for.