Bruno Fernandes says £103m player Arsenal want is ‘excellent’

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Bruno Fernandes has spoken very highly about Joao Neves – amid reports Arsenal want to sign the Portugal international.

The 29-year-old made the comments when speaking to Sport TV in Portugal.

So, what did Bruno Fernandes say about Arsenal target Joao Neves? Let’s take a look…

Bruno Fernandes hails Joao Neves

Well – according to 90min – Arsenal have sent scouts to watch the Benfica No.87 on several occasions this season, and are very interested.

Neves – who ESPN add has a release clause worth €120m (£103m) – has now been praised by Fernandes, with the Manchester United No.8 claiming that his fellow countryman is ready for Premier League football.

The Portugal international said: “I don’t know if United rumours are true, but I know he is ready for that big jump. He is an excellent player, he’s with the national team. That’s also why the big clubs are after him.”

Neves – who is just 19 years of age – has already become a key man at Benfica, making 45 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals while also providing two assists.

Arsenal could replace Jorginho or Thomas Partey with 19-year-old

Some may be questioning where Neves would even play under Mikel Arteta right now.

Arsenal already have Declan Rice, Jorginho, Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny, Emile Smith Rowe and Fabio Vieira as options in the central midfield department.

However, some of these names could depart the Emirates Stadium.

Jorginho sees his contract expire in July, and there is yet to be a breakthrough in negotiations amid interest from Barcelona – who the Italy international wanted to join years ago.

Partey could also be sold – Arteta was apparently ready to sell the Ghana international in January.

Therefore, Neves – a classy holding midfielder – could arrive in north London if Arsenal lose a couple of senior options at the base of midfield this summer.