Manchester United have sent scouts to watch the Lisbon derby on Sunday to monitor and report on Joao Neves, according to Fabrizio Romano. Benfica beat Sporting 2-1 and the three points put them at the top of the Portuguese league table, ahead of Sporting on goal difference.
Neves is a 19-year-old midfielder who typically provides backline protection but is capable of filling other midfield roles. With reports suggesting United could be open to offers for Casemiro involving a move to Saudi Arabia, they appear keen to replace the experienced Brazilian with a young talent who still has the bulk of his career ahead of him.
Neves rose through the ranks of Benfica’s youth team and was promoted to the club’s top ranks in January this year. He has made a total of 18 appearances in all competitions this season, including the full 90 minutes against Sporting, scoring one goal and providing one assist.
🚨🔴 Please know that Manchester United scouts were present at Benfica’s match with Sporting to keep an eye on Joao Neves.
Portuguese midfielder born in 2004 is under surveillance #MYFK scouting department awaiting board changes to make future decisions. pic.twitter.com/evgZoQCMW9
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 14, 2023