Bruno Fernandes praises Man Utd's 'excellent' midfield target

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has praised Portuguese wonderkid Joao Neves, who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

The Red Devils are expected to be in the market for a new midfielder this summer. Manager Erik ten Hag has struggled to pick regulars in this area of the pitch, while current options such as Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have been linked with exits.

Benfica's 19-year-old star Neves has been tipped as an option for United, much to the delight of skipper Fernandes.

Fernandes has become accustomed to playing alongside Neves for the Portugal national team and the two could link up again for their March internationals.

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Speaking to Sport TV, Fernandes had nothing but praise for Neves and said: "I don't know if United rumours are true, but I know he is ready for that big jump. He is an excellent player, he's with the national team, that's also why the big clubs are after him."

Neves broke into the Benfica senior side midway through last season and helped them to the 2022/23 Primeira Liga title. He has since broken into the senior Portugal setup and is expected to make their squad for Euro 2024.

United will be keen to sign a talented midfielder in the summer who can become the perfect partner of young star Kobbie Mainoo, who has praise with his performances at club level and was a surprise omission for Gareth Southgate's England squad this month.

Neves could be an ideal teammate for Mainoo as he's capable of both attacking and defending, while he could be perfect in a midfield pivot.

United are set to return to action after the international break on 30 March when they travel to Brentford.

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