Bernardo would welcome the idea of convincing young star Joao Neves to snub United for a move to City instead.
Portugal international, Bernardo Silva has said he would pull ‘some strings’ to get Benfica midfielder, João Neves to join Manchester City over Premier League rival Manchester United.
Silva and Neves are both international teammates with the Portugal national team.
Neves is enjoying a breakout year with Benfica, stepping in the team to replace Enzo Fernandez who left to join Chelsea for £105million in January.
The 19-year-old is admired by Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes who wants him to join the Red Devils in the near future.
Speaking recently during an appearance at a gala event in Lisbon, Silva said,
“João Neves in the Premier League? I think that players with quality can play in any championship. I see him very focused on his club, which is the most important thing at the moment, a very young player but with a very promising future ahead of him.
“He arrived at the national team, settled in and integrated very well. He’s another one to help, if the coach thinks so, to help us help win the European Championship.
“For City instead of United? If I can, I will pull strings for João Neves to go to Man City. I’d like to see João joining City instead of Man United, of course.”
It is worth noting that Benfica remains steadfast in their decision not to engage in negotiations for the transfer of João Neves in the upcoming January transfer window, despite interest from top European teams.
His technical skills, vision on the field, and ability to control the pace of the game have made him a standout player.
However, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Benfica has placed a significant clause in Neves’ contract, mirroring the situation with Enzo Fernández the previous year.
This clause is said to reflect how important he is to the team at a very young age, thereby indicating Benfica’s desire to retain their asset or ensure a substantial return should a transfer occur.
