Manchester City's Bernardo Silva has publicly encouraged Benfica and Portugal midfielder Joao Neves to reject a transfer offer from Manchester United. Instead, he suggests that the 19-year-old talent should join him at Manchester City.
Manchester United had identified Neves as a crucial target for their summer transfer. Reports from Portugal reveal that they have already been unsuccessful with a £51m bid for the young player. The Red Devils, who ended up in eighth place last season, are eager to find a replacement for Casemiro following his challenging second season at Old Trafford.
Casemiro’s relationship with current Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly strained after being excluded from last month’s FA Cup final against Manchester City. Rumors continue to circulate about his potential lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
Benfica willing to discuss move
Neves' contract includes a release clause of £105m, but it is reported that Benfica would consider offers around £85m. The promising player is expected to represent Portugal in Euro 2024.
Despite Manchester United leading the race initially, Bernardo Silva has urged his international teammate to consider joining him at Man City instead.
Manchester City player, Bernardo Silva, said:
‘I told him to go to Manchester City!
‘It’s not easy. He’s a player who, due to the success he had last season, has many clubs that want him. As a Portuguese and a player I like, I would like to see him by my side. But I want the best for him.
‘I don’t need to convince him. João Neves is already convincing, with the way he works, with the energy he brings to the game. It will be easy for many clubs to enter the race. Let him make his decision, let it be the best for him. If he continues with this energy, he has a very good future ahead of him.’
Silva believes that having another Portuguese player on board will not only strengthen their team but also provide moral support and camaraderie among players sharing similar cultural backgrounds.
Bruno Fernandes also endorsed Neves' move
Bruno Fernandes, captain of Manchester United and fellow countryman of Neves', spoke highly of the youngster back in March. He insisted that this highly-rated talent was ‘ready’ for a ‘big jump’ to a top European club.
The transfer window is heating up with the tug of war between Manchester United and Manchester City over Joao Neves. While United has shown keen interest, Silva's public endorsement might sway Neves towards Man City. As the Euro 2024 approaches, all eyes will be on this young talent as he makes his mark on the international stage and decides his club future.
