Man City star Bernardo Silva fires Joao Neves transfer plea amid Man United links

Bernardo Silva says he would like to play alongside Portugal teammate Joao Neves as the Benfica youngster continues to be linked with European's biggest clubs.

In his breakout season at Benfica, the 19-year-old has drawn attention from scouts across Europe including the likes of Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. The promising young midfielder has been linked with a move to Manchester United, who have been monitoring his progress for a while.

He is expected to be high in demand this summer but Benfica's stance is clear. The Eagles will not entertain offers under £85million (€100m), with Neves tied to a £102m (€120m) release clause. They are also confident of keeping him ahead of next season.

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With City among the other clubs mooted, Silva has suggested he would like to play alongside Neves and that Pep Guardiola doesn't need convincing. "I would tell him to join Manchester City," he said when asked about Neves' links to United.

"It's not easy. He's a player who, due to the success he's had last season, has a lot of clubs that want him. Being Portuguese and a player that I admire, I would like to see him play beside me.

"But I want what is best for him. Pep Guardiola? I don't need to convince him, Neves has already convinced due to the way that he works and the energy he offers the game. He is not a cheap player and it won't be easy for clubs who are in the race [for his signature].

"He will make his own decision and one that is best for him. If he continues with this energy, he will have a