Player who left Old Trafford in 2022 now tells star not to join Man United this summer

Add as preferred source on Google

A player who left Old Trafford in 2022 has now advised one Manchester United target not to join the Red Devils this summer.

We are expecting a summer of huge change at Old Trafford with Sir Jim Ratcliffe now involved in decision making.

Erik ten Hag seems likely to be sacked after a truly miserable campaign, which has involved embarrassing defeats to Copenhagen, Fulham, Bournemouth, Chelsea and more.

A few experienced heads also appear likely to leave, with Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans, Anthony Martial and Tom Heaton all seeing their contracts expire in July.

There are also – of course – plans to strengthen, although one primary target for Manchester United has now been told not to make the move to Old Trafford this summer by Nemanja Matic…

Nemanja Matic tells Joao Neves not to join Manchester United this summer

Well, the Serbian – who made 189 appearances for Manchester United before departing in 2022 – has now advised Joao Neves to stay at Benfica.

It comes amid a story from the Mirror – who claim that Ratcliffe wants the Portugal international at Manchester United this summer, and is expected to open talks with Benfica over a deal.

However, Matic believes it is too early for Neves – aged 19 – to leave Benfica.

The 35-year-old told O Jogo: “I really like the youngest… Joao Neves.

“He’s fantastic. At just 19, he’s a fantastic player. He’s the future of Benfica. Of course, he’s interested some Premier League clubs too. I really like this type of player, who is young but plays with a lot of maturity.

“I think it’s too early for him to take that step of leaving. If I were him, he’d stay at Benfica for a few more years to play in the Champions League and to mature more. I’m sure his time will come, so there’s no need to rush. Joao is already at a great club at the moment. I’m sure his future at Benfica will be very good. I think it’s too early to leave, but of course, in the end, it’s always his decision.”

Neves has made a whopping 50 appearances in all competitions for Benfica so far this season – playing 90 minutes on many an occasion – so he is clearly a valued, trusted figure, despite his age.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe should trigger release clause

Neves actually has a release clause worth €120m (£102m) written into his contract at Benfica.

It is – of course – a steep sum, but if Manchester United can afford to do so, we believe the Red Devils should trigger this clause.

Neves is immensely talented, and will only become better – and consequently more expensive – as time goes on, so Ratcliffe must pounce before someone else does.

Arsenal are scouting the teenager – who Bruno Fernandes called a “great” talent – so Manchester United are not alone in this transfer battle.

Hopefully, Neves does not listen to Matic, and secures a move to Old Trafford this summer – be sure to keep an eye on this situation.