According to the Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, Manchester United has increased their scouting of Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves.

The 19-year-old is one of Europe’s most sought-after young midfielders. Bruno Fernandes recently requested that the Red Devils sign him.

United have reportedly ‘intensified their surveillance’ of the teenager, but a deal may be difficult to complete with Benfica unwilling to bargain.

Benfica president Rui Costa is determined to maintain the club’s finest asset and hopes to keep the midfielder beyond this season.

To get Neves, United will have to trigger the €120 million release clause in his contract.

Manchester United could make a move for Neves next summer

Last winter, Benfica took a similar position with Enzo Fernandez. They were hesitant to let him go until Chelsea agreed to pay somewhat more than his €120 million buy-out clause.

United may need to arrange a similar deal for a long-term payment plan, but a move during the January transfer window is doubtful.

With Financial Fair Play, the club is currently in a precarious situation. The Glazers are on the verge of exceeding their expenditure constraints due to a lack of investment.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is willing to offer funds after gaining a minority share, but the club is unlikely to finance Neves unless numerous players leave.

Neves would be a fantastic addition to United. He has won over two tackles and seven duels each game this season despite being only 19 years old.

He could be considered a replacement for Casemiro, who has shown indications of slowing down. If everything goes as planned, the club could spend a lot of money on him next summer.

We don’t see any European club spending a lot of money on Neves in January. Chelsea is capable of doing so, but they no longer require midfield reinforcements.