Who is Joao Neves? The 18-year-old Benfica wonderkid linked with Manchester United

Joao Neves is the latest name to be linked to Manchester United, but who is the 18-year-old midfield maestro?

The Portuguese teenager, who plays his club football for Benfica, has emerged as a rising star for his country.

And Erik ten Hag is keen to bring him to Old Trafford as the United boss seeks to add creativity and dynamism to his midfield.

Let's take a further look at the midfielder in detail.

Who is Joao Neves?

Neves was born in September 2004 in Tavira and began his playing career at the Casa Benfica Tavira, followed by four seasons at the Benfica Training and Development Center in Faro (Algarve).

He joined Benfica's youth team in 2016/17, rising up the ranks before making his first team debut on December 30, 2022.

While the 5ft 9 midfielder made his Champions League debut in February of this year against Club Brugge in the first leg of the round of 16.

Neves also helped the Under-23 side win the UEFA Youth League in the 2021/22 campaign, the club's first trophy in the competition.

How has he played this season?

Neves has made 17 appearances in the Primeira Liga this season, scoring one goal and helping Benfica win the league for the first time since 2019.

While he featured three times in the Champions league, providing one assist in the competition.

He is currently away with Portugal at the U21 European Championships, and recently scored a fantastic volley against Belgium to help his country qualify for the next round.

Who is his hero?

Speaking in an interview with BPlay in March, Neves revealed his childhood hero was Pablo Aimar, while he also had a fondness for former Benfica striker Óscar Cardozo.

"I really liked Cardozo and Aimar, but my idol is Aimar", he said (quotes via One Football).

Why might Man Utd be interested?

United recently stuck a pin in their pursuit of Mason Mount, with the Red Devils unwilling to match Chelsea's £65 million asking price.

In turn, Ten Hag has cast his mind to other midfield targets, with the likes of Scott McTominay and Fred heavily rumoured with Old Trafford exits.

What's the latest?

According to Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio, Manchester United are interested in signing Neves.

While he is valued at €10 million, as per Transfermarkt.