Former Manchester United favourite Nani has claimed the club let a major opportunity slip by failing to sign Portuguese midfielder Joao Neves, who instead joined Paris Saint-Germain in a big-money move.
Neves: The One That Got Away
Nani, who won multiple Premier League titles at Old Trafford, described his compatriot as an 'all-round talent' who possessed the perfect attributes for United. Neves moved to PSG in the summer of 2024 for a fee of £60 million, seeing off rival interest from several top clubs, including Manchester United.
The Red Devils had tracked the player closely, with scouts monitoring his performances after he seamlessly filled the void left by Enzo Fernandez's £106 million departure from Benfica to Chelsea in January 2026. United are understood to have made at least one formal bid for Neves, while club captain Bruno Fernandes also publicly endorsed his international teammate.
Nani's Verdict on United's Midfield Miss
Speaking to Metro.co.uk on behalf of casino.co.uk, Nani did not hold back in his assessment. "For sure, he would have been a great signing," the ex-United winger stated. "He can run, he has amazing energy and all-round talent. He can score goals and can do anything on the field. He is a very clever footballer, who I think would fit in any team."
Neves proved his elite quality last season, playing a pivotal role in the PSG midfield alongside Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz as the French giants finally secured the Champions League trophy. His success in Paris has only amplified the sense of regret for many United supporters, with the long-term composition of their own midfield remaining an unresolved issue.
Semenyo Emerges as a New Target
As the January transfer window approaches, attention is turning to other potential recruits. Nani also commented on United's reported interest in Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, who could be available for around £65 million.
Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City are also said to be monitoring the situation, but Nani believes the Ghanaian forward embodies what the Old Trafford faithful crave. "I think all the players who have the ability to move forward at speed, being able to dribble, able to shoot, to score goals, to assist and just have that general creativity in the moment would suit Manchester United," he explained.
"That's the type of the player the fans want to see." However, Nani issued a note of caution about the unique pressures of playing for the club, highlighting the need for any new signing to adapt quickly to the demanding environment.
The former Portugal international expressed hope that if Semenyo does make the switch, he arrives with the right mentality to showcase his talent and immediately help the team.
