Joao Neves plan, manager verdict and Inacio bid - Portuguese media reveal Man Utd transfer strategy

Manchester United have been linked with a host of Portuguese players ahead of the summer transfer window.

The name that has featured predominantly is Joao Neves, one of the most promising central midfielders in Europe. United have plans to strengthen their midfield options and the 19-year-old is a strong candidate to potentially replace Casemiro, whose future is uncertain beyond the summer.

However, the Reds are not alone in their pursuit, with Liverpool and Chelsea among the clubs to hold an interest in him. In addition to Neves, Sporting Clube de Portugal's Goncalo Inacio is also on the radar.

READ MORE: Manchester United ‘provide information’ against Man City in legal case against Premier League

READ MORE: Forgotten Manchester United player could provide Ineos with unexpected FFP boost

He is claimed to be a target for the United hierarchy and after Sporting managed to keep hold of him in January, he could be set for an exit this summer.

With that said, MEN Sport has taken a look at what the Portuguese media have reported.

A Bola: Benfica fighting to keep hold of Joao Neves

Benfica are planning their attack in the transfer window, in a way that they would not need to sell Joao Neves this summer. They want to resist the interest of European clubs, especially in the Premier League, where Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City are all linked with the 19-year-old.

The message being transmitted to clubs who have approached Benfica over the midfielder, is clear: Whoever wants to sign Joao Neves, will have to pay his release clause of €120m. Benfica's new season is also being planned with Neves, and if he leaves, an addition will have to be made despite Fredrik Aursnes' ability to play in midfield.