Man Utd 'plotting move for £103m midfielder' as Fabrizio Romano confirms Sir Jim Ratcliffe interest

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Manchester United's interest in a £103 million star midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window.

Man United are set to reinforce their squad at the end of the season following Sir Jim Ratcliffe's 25 per cent purchase in the club.

Ratcliffe, who is in charge of recruitment at Man United, is planning to sell 10 players in a major summer overhaul.

The British billionaire is looking to trim the club's squad before signing new players.

A defensive midfielder and a central midfielder are thought to be high on Man United's transfer wishlist ahead of the transfer window reopening.

And, according to Romano, they are keeping tabs on Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, who has been scouted this season.

Man United, however, will have to fork out his whopping release clause of £103 million if they want to lure him away from Portugal.

Pep Guardiola's Manchester City are also monitoring the 19-year-old starlet.

Joao Neves in action for Benfica. Image: Getty

"In terms of possible midfield signings coming in for United, the race remains open for Benfica wonder kid Joao Neves, who has been scouted by the Red Devils, and also by Manchester City," said Romano.

"Benfica will insist on the release clause of €120m [£103m] being triggered, so it’s not an easy deal, but the interest from Premier League clubs is there in terms of scouting."

The Italian journalist added: "So far, no club has approached Benfica to start a negotiation yet, so it remains absolutely open."

Neves, who is known for his passing and ability to retain possession in tight spaces, graduated from Benfica's youth academy before breaking into the first-team.

He made 20 appearances in all competitions last season after making his debut in 2023.

Neves has played 37 games in all competitions this season.

He also boasts Champions League experience having represented Benfica in Europe.