Manchester United ready to 'advance' on Joao Neves transfer with Casemiro decision

Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their interest in signing Benfica midfielder Joao Neves.

United have been heavily linked with a move for Neves ever since the January transfer window. The 19-year-old has also been reportedly listed as a potential target for Liverpool and Chelsea in recent months.

Reports from Portugal have provided an update on Neves' future as the season draws to a close. It has been suggested that a move to Old Trafford could be on the cards.

According to Record, United have been tracking the progress of Neves for several months and are prepared to 'advance' on a deal to sign the talented midfielder. It has been claimed that the Reds are interested in signing Neves as a potential replacement for Casemiro this summer.

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United are also reportedly interested in Neves' Benfica teammate, Antonio Silva. However, the report claims that Neves is the priority target at the moment, although an official offer from the Reds is yet to be made.

It has been stated though in the report that it is only in the "short term" that an offer has not been made by United. This is implying that the Reds are getting ready to make an official offer to Benfica to sign Neves.

It remains to be seen how much United would need to offer in order to tempt Benfica into selling Neves. Reports earlier this year suggested that the midfielder has a €120 million (£103 million) release clause in his contract, with Benfica rumoured to be keen on agreeing a new deal that would see the clause increase to €150 million (£129 million).

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