In a recent report, journalist Rudy Galetti mentioned that Manchester City are hoping to land Benfica midfielder Joao Neves as a target. It has been stated that the Mancunian club are showing interest in recruiting the Portuguese talent this summer.
Neves’ Impressive Rise In Portuguese Football
The 19-year-old had a solid campaign at the Portuguese club as he put in a string of impressive performances for them in the middle of the park. Neves registered three goals and picked up a couple of assists in 55 appearances for Benfica last season across multiple competitions.
The Portuguese sensation has been a decent contributor at the centre of the park based on his average of 2.0 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 0.9 shots, 0.8 key passes and 1.2 dribbles per game in Liga Portugal. He has even distributed possession relatively well after making 89.9% of his attempted passes in the Portuguese top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Portuguese club will run out in the summer of 2028 which could make it difficult for Man City to sign him on the cheap later this year.
Manchester City Are Hoping To Land Neves: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Neves usually works hard for his team defensively. He is a solid tackler of the ball and can make some important interceptions for his team at the centre of the park. The Portuguese starlet usually clears the danger when required and can strike the ball with venom and precision from long range. He has also got the eye to play some decisive passes in the final third and is a good dribbler with the ball as well.
However, Neves might need some time to adjust to the physicality and high intensity of Premier League football. Still, Man City would be wise to go all out to bring him to the Etihad Stadium this summer.
We can expect Neves to add more bite and steel to Pep Guardiola‘s midfield. He has got the potential to grow into a future star at the Mancunian club. However, Man City would have to be patient with his progress before they can get the best out of the youngster.
With all things considered, Neves is undeniably a prospect to watch out for in the future and would be a terrific signing for the Mancunian giants this summer.
