Man Utd set for early transfer talks to sign €120m star

Manchester United are prepared for early transfer talks to sign Benfica midfielder Joao Neves, according to Mirror.

The 19-year-old is one of the most sought-after young midfielders in world football and he has been touted to leave Benfica for a bigger challenge.

United are one of his main admirers and Mirror report that they are ready to initiate discussions with the wonderkid in advance.

Neves currently has a release clause worth €120 million in his deal. Benfica are likely to hold out for a similar figure this summer.

It remains to be seen whether United will manage to entice him to join them when there is competition from Real Madrid among others.

United are currently eight points behind the Champions League places and the margin could increase further if Arsenal win next weekend.

If they were to miss out on the elite club competition, it could be difficult to persuade the Portuguese teenager ahead of their European rivals.