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Manchester United 'want teenage midfielder as Casemiro replacement'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 09 May 2024

Man Utd 'want teenage midfielder as Casemiro replacement'

Manchester United allegedly step up their pursuit of Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, viewing him as the ideal replacement for Casemiro.

Manchester United have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, with the Red Devils determined to secure his signature during this summer's transfer window.

The 19-year-old has been in impressive form for his Portuguese club during the 2023-24 campaign, making 53 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and registering two assists in the process.

Neves's performances this season have led to a host of speculation, with a number of major European clubs believed to be interested in securing his signature in the upcoming market.

Man United continue to be linked with the Portugal international, and according to Record, the 20-time English champions are now preparing to step up their interest.

The report claims that the club are planning to 'advance' on a deal, viewing him as the ideal replacement for Casemiro, who is set to move on after two seasons at the club.

Benfica's Joao Neves in action on September 20, 2023 © Reuters

Man United 'step up pursuit of Benfica's Joao Neves'

Neves has a release clause of €120m (£102m) in his current deal, but Man United are unlikely to be in a position to pay that during this summer's transfer window.

Indeed, it has already been confirmed that the club will not be in the Champions League next season, and they are facing the prospect of missing out on European football altogether.

There are also a number of other areas of the squad that need strengthening this summer, with two new centre-backs and a centre-forward viewed as priorities.

Neves has four years left to run on his contract, but Man United are thought to be confident of negotiating the price down, with the teenager keen on a switch to Old Trafford.

The midfielder has made 73 appearances for Benfica in all competitions, scoring four goals and registering three assists in the process.

Manchester United's Casemiro looks dejected after the match on May 6, 2024 © Reuters

Man United 'are planning to replace Casemiro'

Casemiro was impressive for Man United during the 2022-23 campaign, with the Brazil international excelling for the Red Devils following his arrival from Real Madrid.

However, the 32-year-old has struggled to make his mark this season, and his recent performances in the middle of the defence have been widely criticised.

Defensive issues have led to Casemiro being pressed into action in an unfamiliar position, and he struggled during Man United's 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace last time out.

The Brazilian has another two years left to run on his contract, with the option of a further 12 months, but it appears almost certain that he will be leaving this summer.

A number of Saudi Arabian clubs are said to be monitoring the developments, with a move away from European football expected to occur in the upcoming market.