In a recent print edition, O Jogo claimed that Barcelona are locked in a three-way battle for Benfica midfielder Joao Neves. It has been stated that the Catalan club could face competition from Liverpool, Newcastle United and Manchester City in the race to land the Portuguese youngster.
Neves’ Impressive Form In Portuguese Football This Season
The 19-year-old has come through the youth ranks of Benfica and has already managed to establish himself as a key member of their first team. Neves has made 39 senior appearances for the Portuguese outfit thus far, finding the back of the net twice and securing two assists in all competitions.
The talented teenager has been a positive influence at both ends of the field based on his average of 2.4 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 0.9 clearances, 0.7 shots, 0.6 key passes and 1.4 dribbles per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal. He was even accurate when distributing possession from midfield after making 90.6% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Portuguese club will expire in the summer of 2028. Hence, it won’t be easy for Barca to get a deal done for him on the cheap in the upcoming winter transfer window.
Barcelona Are Eyeing A Move For Neves: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Neves is a solid tackler of the ball and can make a few timely interceptions for his team. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when needed and can shoot the ball with venom from long range. The Portuguese talent has got the vision to create some decent plays for others around him and is a good dribbler as well. He is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also play as a box-to-box midfielder or operate in the number ten position if needed.
Neves would no doubt be a brilliant signing for Barcelona in the long run. Xavi would be the perfect man to oversee his development and unlock the best out of him at the Nou Camp over the next decade.
At 19, there is no doubt that Neves is a prospect to watch out for in the future. Hence, Barca would do well to win the race for his services when the transfer window reopens at the start of next year.
