The perennial summer speculation wheel is turning, and Manchester United are developing an expected amount of traction.
Amongst the many names linked with a high-profile move to the 20-time English champions, the prospect of Portuguese sensation Joao Neves is creating significant excitement.
The 19-year-old Tavira native showcases his talents with domestic giants Benfica – while building international applause with A Seleção das Quinas.
A combination of playmaking and defensive abilities has propelled the dynamic midfielder into the conversation for the finest prospects in Europe, with expectations moving towards a mega-money move on the horizon.
Multiple outlets suggest Manchester United are considering an approach to create a ‘best-in-class’ midfield pairing with Kobbie Mainoo. But what could the Old Trafford faithful expect from this tenacious teenager?
A versatile figure in the heart of the midfield
Despite enduring a frustrating domestic campaign in playing second-fiddle to an imperious Sporting CP, Neves continued to captivate his growing fanbase.
Lining out for 55 appearances, the sprightly footballer clocked in a remarkable tally of 4,302 minutes of play – featuring predominantly from his favoured central defensive midfield role.
However, his versatility in the side offers ample opportunity for interchange, with Neves capable of moving further forward into an ‘eight’ and even in a wide-right setting to stretch the play.
Standing at 1.74 metres, many have questioned his size in transitioning to a physically imposing Premier League. But his physicality outweighs this, and his leap is outstanding – ranking in the 76 percentile for aerial battles won across Europe.
A defensive monster
Analysing a player’s engine is difficult, but you can gain an image of their tenacity through their defensive metrics and willingness to get their body around.
Neves displays European-leading metrics, comfortably ranking in the top 15 percentile when combining the five key ranking attributes.
He averages an astonishing 3.73 tackles, 1.78 clearances, 1.62 interceptions, 1.38 aerials won and 1.05 blocks per 90 minutes of play over the last 365 days.
The consistency of his output is as impressive as the figures themselves, regularly earning recognition through weekly and monthly placements in high-performing teams.
Combining his defensive attributes with the majesty of Mainoo presents the capabilities of harnessing a midfield partnership to last for over a decade at the Theatre of Dreams.
Quality in possession
Unlike many combative midfielders, Neves possesses a grace in possession to separate him from the crowd.
He averaged 1.54 carries per outing with a staggering 2.19 successful take-ons per 90′ – ranking in the top two percentile in Europe.
Furthermore, he never hides from possession and continuously makes himself available for teammates. He attempted 65.11 passes per 90′ and achieved an 84.1% completion rate.
Notably, his application aiding the transition phase saw 6.49 passes into the final third per 90′ – ranking the defensive kingpin in the top 12 percentile across European football’s ‘Big Five’ leagues.
As you can see, Joao Neves is no ordinary footballer.
Should Manchester United move heaven and earth to sign the player?
In short – yes! What football fan would not want to witness a trio of Bruno Fernandes, Mainoo and Neves?
However, significant variables are at play, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s battle to shave expenditure to accommodate the rigorous Profit and Sustainability rules of the Premier League is far from straightforward.
United have been keen on a move for the teenager for quite some time, but they are not alone in their interest for the Portuguese.
Various publications claim the Red Devils will have a fight on their hands to attract the player, with Joshua Hall – from the Sun – going as far as to say that Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva has been in the ear of his compatriot.
A potential move for the As Águias destroyer will likely fetch close to €100 Million, and Ratcliffe’s backroom superteam will rely heavily on the outgoings of several veteran names.
It remains to be seen if a depleted transfer kitty can stretch to luring the talented player, but if possible, this is an acquisition to fuel the Ineos rebuild into a bright future.
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