Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has spoken out to welcome Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves into the Portugal squad.
Joao Neves, 19, is one the latest exciting players to emerge through Benfica’s academy, with 31 first team appearances to date.
Di Marzio reported in the summer that Manchester United are tracking Joao Neves’ progress, and interest remains.
However, there is a sizeable problem, with Benfica placing a staggering £103 million release clause in his contract.
Diogo Dalot praises Joao Neves
Diogo Dalot arrived in Portugal on Sunday and spoke to reporters yesterday as his Portugal teammates joined him for international duty, with Joao Neves a new face.
Dalot spoke to Record and said he is confident Joao Neves will be a strong addition to the group.
He said: “I’ve also been in his role and I believe there is always a nervousness. He has all the qualities to be here, he showed it at Benfica.”
Neves’ call-up has been backed by Portugal under-21 manager Rui Jorge, who wishes him well in the senior squad.
Rui Jorge told A Bola: “What I can say is that João Neves is a player who in this under-21 space and from what we observed in this space, has always had high-level behavior and performances here.”
Portugal have a 100 per cent record in Euro 2024 qualification and can book their place in the finals this week.
Competition from City
Even if Manchester United decided to pay up for Joao Neves, there could be competition from rivals Manchester City.
90min report Pep Guardiola’s side are very keen on the central midfielder and are currently considered as frontrunners.
Whether Benfica hold out for the full release clause remains to be seen, however, history suggests they might, and they will be reluctant to cash in before Euro 2024.