Man Utd currently at the 'head of the pack' to sign 'excellent player' - report

Manchester United are leading the race to sign Benfica midfielder Joao Neves this summer, according to Portuguese publication Record.

The Red Devils are likely to make multiple changes to the first-team squad and they could consider signing a new defensive midfielder.

Casemiro has looked a shadow of himself this season. The United hierarchy may want a marquee addition to add competition for places.

Neves has been linked with the club in recent weeks and Record (page 14) claim that the Red Devils are at the ‘head of the pack’ to sign Neves.

Benfica are currently looking at the positions of Neves, Florentino Luis and Orkun Kokcu. At least one of the trio could head for the exit door.

The Primeira Liga outfit are hopeful of keeping hold of Neves for another year by improving his €18,000 per week salary with a new contract.

United need to make huge outlay for Neves

The 19-year-old has developed into one of the best young defensive midfielders in European football.

In the recent Primeira Liga season, Neves completed 54 passes per game with an accuracy of 90 per cent.

He won six duels and two tackles per outing for Benfica alongside 6.4 ball recoveries.

Neves has played just two seasons at the senior level, but he has already shown plenty of maturity.

The youngster, who has been described as an ‘excellent player‘ by Bruno Fernandes, would be a fantastic acquisition for United. The big question is whether they can afford to purchase him.

The Portuguese has a release clause worth €120 million in his contract. Benfica could be willing to accept a long-term payment plan, but may not provide much of a discount on the price.

A move for the wonderkid could depend on player sales. United could have a low pre-sales budget this summer on the back of missing out on next season’s Champions League revenue.

Stats from Capology.com & Sofascore.com