Man Utd & Arsenal ready to offer €60m for Joao Neves – but Benfica tell Premier League giants to DOUBLE their bids for teenager
### Man Utd & Arsenal Eye Joao Neves, Benfica Demand Double Their €60m Bids
Manchester United and Arsenal are both eager to sign Benfica’s young star Joao Neves, offering €60 million each. However, Benfica insists that any potential suitors must double their bids to match Neves’ release clause of €120 million.
#### Neves in High Demand
Joao Neves has attracted significant interest from Manchester United and Arsenal after a stellar season. Despite the enticing €60 million (£51m/$65m) offers on the table, Benfica is firm on their valuation of €120 million (£102m/$130m), as reported by Portuguese outlet Abola. This release clause underscores Benfica’s determination to retain the Portuguese talent.
#### Rising Star
Neves’ stock has risen sharply following his impressive performances, earning him a call-up to the European Championship. Benfica is keen to keep their young star for at least another season, but the Premier League giants’ persistent interest is putting pressure on the club. Both Manchester United and Arsenal are expected to continue their pursuit, though meeting the €120 million release clause is a significant financial stretch.
#### Contract Negotiations
In a bid to secure Neves’ future, Benfica has considered offering a new contract that would increase both his salary and the release clause to €150 million (£127m/$162m). However, negotiations have hit a snag. The proposed salary hike still falls short of what top earners at the club receive, and it doesn’t fully reflect Neves’ growing importance. Currently, Neves earns around €500,000 per season under a contract that runs until 2028.
#### What’s Next?
The coming weeks will be critical as Benfica tries to navigate the challenges of keeping a rising star amid intense external interest. The modern transfer market’s reality suggests that a substantial offer could eventually test Benfica’s resolve. With Manchester United and Arsenal likely to be persistent, Benfica’s determination will be thoroughly tested.
The battle for Joao Neves is just heating up, and it promises to be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer.
