Bruno Fernandes has already given Joao Neves verdict as Benfica issue Man United transfer response

Benfiica have shut down the possibility of Manchester United signing prodigious talent Joao Neves.

The holding midfielder, 19, has emerged as one of the rising stars across European football. Neves has made a total 29 appearances so far this term, including six in the Champions League, and has been touted for a high-profile move in the near future. Benfica have Neves under contract until 2028, with his deal reportedly including an €120m (£103m) release clause.

Despite the hefty sums involved, it was previously claimed that United had identified the Benfica prospect as a top target. Reports in Correio da Manha stated that United had held postive talks over a move for Neves.

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This prompted a club statement from Benfica, who moved to deny the transfer speculation surrounding the teenager: "Sport Lisboa e Benfica denies the existence of any right of preference over its player Joao Neves. Under no circumstances did Sport Lisboa e Benfica enter into talks with Manchester United or any other club about this player - nor does it intend to do so. Any information that points in another direction is false."

An earlier report from the Mirror had suggested that United were prepared to 'start the groundwork' soon in order to complete a deal for Neves in the summer. Following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s purchase of a 25 per cent stake in the club and subsequently taking control of football operations, it was said that the Portugal international was viewed as a “priority investment”.

In terms of United's recruitment, defensive midfield is an