Manchester City consider Joao Neves to replace Kevin De Bruyne

Manchester City are reportedly considering replacing Kevin De Bruyne with Benfica sensation Joao Neves this summer.

According to TEAMtalk, Manchester City are reportedly considering signing Joao Neves as a direct replacement for Kevin De Bruyne this summer. The Benfica star has attracted massive interest in the market, with Manchester United also interested in the 19-year-old, who has a €120m release clause.

Joao Neves to Manchester City?

Manchester City have been quiet in the transfer market so far, but could well rise from the ashes with a sensational signing. The outlet links them to Joao Neves, with the 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder seen as a direct replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who could leave this summer.

The report reiterates an earlier claim that De Bruyne has verbally agreed to join Al-Ittihad this summer, which would leave a significant void in Pep Guardiola’s squad. Should the Belgian leave, the club would want a suitable talent to replace their talismanic playmaker, with a host of options being discussed in the background.

Interest in Joao Neves has emerged, but it is a bit complicated, given that Manchester United are also interested and are expected to make an offer for the 19-year-old midfielder. On the other hand, Benfica are not keen on selling him cheap and will put forward the €120 million release clause to sell the young midfielder.

Club president Rui Costa has made his position clear, although offers in excess of €100m could be considered. In the meantime, one wonders why Guardiola would consider Neves as De Bruyne’s replacement, given that the 19-year-old is closer to Rodri in terms of profile and lacks the Belgian’s attacking qualities.

Kevin De Bruyne’s other replacement options at Manchester City

Manchester City are interested in Xavi Simons as they could consider a move for the PSG star. There are rumours that the two clubs could even consider a swap deal involving the Dutchman and Bernardo Silva. Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz is also a major target. However, the Bundesliga Player of the Year is expected to stay for another season before being sold and will be very expensive.

Manchester City have also expressed interest in Jamal Musiala, although the Bayern Munich star would prefer to join dream club Real Madrid. However, the summer transfer window is likely to provide answers to many questions regarding De Bruyne and Manchester City’s replacement option for the Belgian, with Joao Neves among the candidates.