According to reports, Manchester United is preparing an initial offer for a player that they have identified as a potential replacement for Casemiro. Casemiro, who joined United from Real Madrid in 2022, has faced criticism for his performances in the 2023-24 season and has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. As part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans to revamp the squad, United is reportedly interested in signing Benfica’s talented midfielder Joao Neves. While Neves has a release clause of £105 million, United is expected to negotiate a lower fee. The 19-year-old Portuguese player has impressed since replacing Enzo Fernandez in the Benfica side and has attracted interest from several top European clubs. United has been monitoring Neves, as well as Benfica center-back Antonio Silva, but it is believed that Neves is their main priority. If the transfer goes through, Neves could potentially form a long-term midfield partnership with emerging talent Kobbie Mainoo at United. 

Neves has already made his Champions League debut and received praise for his performances at Benfica. Although he signed a six-year contract with Benfica in December 2022, United would need to make a convincing offer to secure his services.