“No doubt” Manchester United given blunt response to Joao Neves interest

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for the Benfica star in recent months.

Benfica manager Roger Schmidt has spoken out on Manchester United’s interest in Joao Neves.

Since breaking into Benfica’s senior team in early 2023, Neves has quickly established himself as one of the most promising midfielders in the Portuguese league.

The Red Devils have sent out scouts to monitor Neves earlier this season, reportedly considering adding him to their squad in January. However, Schmidt insists that all of his players are eager to end the current campaign at the club.

“I talk to them every day. Of course we have big goals for Benfica and of course we need them to do that,” Schmidt said on Thursday.

“Nobody wants to leave, I have no doubt about that.”

Neves’ stellar breakthrough season convinced Benfica to extend his contract until 2028 in the summer. The Portuguese side are, therefore, under no pressure to sell the 19-year-old anytime soon.

United have been dealing with personnel issues in their midfield line this season, with the likes of Mason Mount and Casemiro suffering long-term injuries. However, both players are set to return in January as the Red Devils look to bounce back in the second half of the campaign.