Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag admires Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, but the midfield maestro is unlikely to leave the Portuguese club in January.

Benfica coach Roger Schmidt has warned Manchester United not to interfere with their pursuit of midfield prodigy Joao Neves.

Neves, 19, has had a breakout season in Portugal this season under Schmidt and already has a long list of fans from all across Europe. United scouts have already watched the newly-minted Portugal international, who is thought to be of interest to Erik ten Hag.

Despite speculation tying Neves to a high-profile move, Benfica are determined to maintain their local star, and Schmidt is convinced that neither Neves nor Antonio Silva, another player of interest to Manchester United, will leave in January.

Schmidt said of the couple on Thursday, “I talk to them every day.” Of course, we have lofty ambitions for Benfica, and we expect them to achieve them. Nobody wants to leave, I’m certain of it.”

Neves’ contract apparently includes a €120 million (£105 million) release clause, and he appears destined for greatness given his meteoric rise at Benfica, who awarded him his first professional contract in 2020.

This season, the promising youth has also made advances on the international arena, making his entire senior debut for Portugal alongside Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes in October.

Fernandes was immediately questioned by reporters about the possibility of playing alongside Neves at club level, and his support has further fueled speculation that Neves will end up in the Premier League sooner rather than later.

In response to the possibility of Neves joining United last month, Fernandes stated, “It has to be the Man United coach who says whether he has a place or not.” He’s a fantastic player, but I’m not sure if he’d fit in. It is up to the coach and his ideas. But he’s a fantastic player and a fantastic kid, very professional, and he’ll have a wonderful future wherever he goes.

“I’d like to have him by my side.” Because he is of high quality and has a promising future. It is up to him. What I care about most is what is best for him.”

Despite having had their worst start to a season in decades under Ten Hag, it remains to be known whether United will add to their roster in January. After backing the Dutchman to the tune of £170 million in the summer, the club’s financial commitments will govern their operations.