'I would love him by my side' – Bruno Fernandes eager for 'excellent' Portugal team-mate to join him at Man Utd

Bruno Fernandes says he would "love" to play alongside Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves at Manchester United.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• United linked with 19-year-old
• Already a full Portugal international
• Fernandes rates teenager highly

• Table of Contents

  Toggle

  WHAT HAPPENED?

  United have been linked with a potential swoop to sign Neves from Benfica as they look to reinforce their midfield, and Fernandes has talked up his compatriot's abilities. Already a full Portugal international, the teenager has made 38 appearances for the Primeira Liga giants, playing in both central and defensive midfield.

Advertisement

• Getty Images
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Neves has come through Benfica's youth system and has a contract that runs until 2028, meaning the club will be in no rush to sell. They are also in a strong negotiating position and are unlikely to let a top young talent leave on the cheap.

• WHAT THEY SAID

  Fernandes was asked about the possibility of United signing Neves, and he replied: "It has to be the Man United coach who says whether he has a place or not. He’s a great player, I don’t know if he would have a place or not. It depends on the coach and his ideas.

  "But he’s an excellent player and an excellent kid, very professional, he will have a bright future wherever he goes. I would love to have him by my side. Because he has quality and will have a bright future. It depends on him. What I want most is the best for him."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty
  

  WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

  United could potentially look to table a bid for Neves in January, but a summer deal appears more likely. Erik ten Hag has struggled to find a balance in midfield this season, with new signings Sofyan Amrabat and Mason Mount both struggling to make their mark at Old Trafford.