Manchester United are thought to be interested in a move for Benfica starboy Joao Neves, according to a recent report from Gianluca Di Marzio.

While United have yet to submit an official approach or transfer bid for the player, their interest appears to be concrete.

The Red Devils have had considerable success with Portuguese players over the last couple of decades – superstars such as Bruno Fernandes, Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo are just a few examples.

Who else, besides United, are interested in a move for Joao Neves?

So far, both Bayern Munich and fellow Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers are thought to be interested in a potential move for Joao Neves. United have already lost out on Kim Min-jae to Bayern this summer – they may be beaten to the punch once again by the Bavarian giants if they do not act fast.

Wolves, meanwhile, have a penchant for signing Portuguese talents. They have boasted the likes of Diogo Jota, Ruben Neves and Rui Patricio in their ranks over the last few years.

Additionally, Benfica could be unwilling to let him go. Not only is he a fantastic young talent, he is also home-grown – he has been in their academy since 2016, when he was 12 years of age.

He signed his first professional contract with Benfica in 2020, going on to make his debut for the club in 2022. So far, he has made 17 appearances for Os Encarnados, scoring a single goal.

What would Joao Neves bring to the Manchester United squad?

For a player of his age, Neves has already displayed almost limitless potential while playing for Benfica. He is extremely skilled, not to mention comfortable, on the ball. On top of this, he isn’t afraid to put in a spine-tingling tackle when necessary.

United need speed up with their transfer business – the window has now been open for multiple weeks, yet the Red Devils have not made a signing in the current window.

Bringing Neves would be a good start – but they must press on and sign players who are ready for the first team, or they risk being left behind by their Premier League title-chasing rivals.