Former Manchester United favourite Nani has claimed the club passed up a golden opportunity by failing to sign Portuguese midfield sensation Joao Neves, who instead joined Paris Saint-Germain in a £60million deal.
The One That Got Away
Nani, speaking to Metro on behalf of casino.co.uk, insisted the Benfica graduate would have been a perfect fit for his old club. "For sure, he would have been a great signing," Nani 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."
United's interest in Neves was serious and well-documented during the first half of 2024. The club, seeking a long-term midfield solution, made several bids for the player after his breakout season at Benfica, where he seamlessly filled the void left by Enzo Fernandez's £106m move to Chelsea. Captain Bruno Fernandes even publicly endorsed his international teammate, declaring Neves was 'ready' for the next step in his career.
PSG's Gain, United's Lingering Problem
However, it was PSG who won the race in late 2024, securing one of Europe's most coveted young talents. Neves has since flourished in Paris, forming a formidable midfield trio with Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz and winning the Champions League last season.
In a twist of fate, United later indirectly funded their rivals by signing Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte from PSG, a player who has struggled to adapt at Old Trafford. This has left United's central midfield issues to fester, with the club now scouring the market for alternatives ahead of next summer.
Searching for the Next Solution
According to reports, United's shortlist currently features several young talents, including:
- Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest, who is thought to be the primary target.
- Brighton's Carlos Baleba, though a summer move was scuppered by a valuation exceeding £100m.
- Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, who is also admired by the club's hierarchy.
The situation is heightened by the need to eventually replace Casemiro. The Brazilian, 33, is in the final year of his contract, and while United hold an option to extend, planning for his successor is paramount. "A replacement will definitely be needed," Nani emphasised, pointing to the historical strength in depth during Sir Alex Ferguson's era as the blueprint for success.
For many United supporters, the sight of Neves excelling elsewhere is a source of frustration, a sentiment now echoed by a club legend who believes a truly 'great signing' slipped through the net.
