Manchester United have had a really topsy-turvy start to the 2023/24 Premier League season and have already lost five of their first 12 games. They are constantly looking to improve their squad and it appears that the Red Devils might have a young midfielder in mind to possibly sign in the future.
Manchester United Scout Benfica Youngster Joao Neves
Watch: The Premier League Big Six Are in Big Danger – Here’s Why
Are United Eyeing a Move For Neves?
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Erik ten Hag’s side recently sent their scouts to watch Benfica youngster Joao Neves in action during their recent 2-1 win over Sporting CP. He adds that the Red Devils want to keep an eye on his progress in Portugal and how he develops as a promising midfielder.
The journalist also adds that “this could be one to watch” for the future in regards to Neves’ links to the English heavyweights. He also states that many other teams are also keeping an eye on him alongside United. When it comes to what happens next, Romano reaffirms that any move for the Portuguese teenager will depend on their ownership situation and if Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to get him in after acquiring a 25% stake at the club.
What Are United Prioritizing For 2024?
Even though the Red Devils are scouting new midfielders to improve their midfield line, it is not that area that they are looking to improve the most. Romano has stated that their priority signing for next year will be to sign a new center-back after conceding way too many goals through the course of the 23/24 campaign so far.
Read More: ‘I Don’t Expect’: Erik ten Hag Issues Major Man Utd Injury Update on Two Key Players
They are probably looking at Neves as an option to sign after their priorities are secured. The 19-year-old has made 17 appearances for Benfica this season, featuring mostly as a defensive midfielder but also being able to play in the right-midfield and center-midfield roles.
He has been praised as a “complete” midfielder in the past for being able to do it all, be it working on his defensive actions or moving the ball forward efficiently. United seem to have total interest in signing the teenager, but it remains to be seen if they sign him anytime soon.
