Interesting Joao Neves price update means Sir Jim Ratcliffe may reconsider Man Utd transfer stance

An interesting update on Joao Neves’ price tag this summer has emerged, and it could tempt Sir Jim Ratcliffe to reconsider Manchester United’s transfer stance.

Neves, 19, has been linked with a move to United in recent months after a tremendous season with Benfica and reports have even stated that the Old Trafford club have made a bid for the teeanger.

That has been rejected, with various outlets claiming that the Portuguese side are looking for at least £85 million, despite Neves having a release clause at £105 million.

However, it has since been suggested that the drop in price is due to Benfica needing to raise funds, and that other factors could potentially lead to that price dropping further.

“Benfica’s asking price they have set it over €100 million,” Robin Bairner told PSG Talk Extra Time. “His release fee is €120 million, which is clearly massive.

“I mean, he’s a player who’s exploded onto the scene, but has he done enough to justify that sort of fee? Probably not. We’ve seen interest from England already [as] Manchester United and Arsenal have both been linked with a move for him.

“But these clubs are only willing to pay €50 million or €60 million, which is a huge shortfall in terms of what Benfica wants.

“Benfica also need to make sales for financial reasons. They had hoped to sell António Silva, who’s a promising young centre back, but he’s not attracting the interest that he was in the first half of the season.

“So the whole situation with him is really complicated. Benfica obviously don’t want to sell, but there are issues elsewhere that could force them at least to drop their asking price, which could spark a bidding war. It’ll be an interesting one to watch as the summer develops for sure.”

Should Neves be available for slightly cheaper than the initial £85 million asking price, it will give Sir Jim Ratcliffe and United something to consider.

It is no secret that the Reds are working on a tight budget this summer and Ratcliffe is against spending any more than £70 million on a single player.

However, Neves is a special talent who could soon transform into a world-class midfielder. Alongside Kobbie Mainoo, he could be part of one of the most exciting young midfield duos in Europe.

It is certainly an interesting discussion for Ratcliffe and his INEOS chiefs to have, as Neves is exactly the type of young and talented player that they would love to have at Old Trafford.

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