Arsenal Have “Scouted” Ace Who “Never Loses a Duel”
Arsenal Eye Joao Neves as Midfield Reinforcement
Arsenal are reportedly considering Benfica midfielder Joao Neves as a potential alternative to Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi this summer.
The Gunners, looking to bolster their midfield options, have scouted the 19-year-old wonderkid.
Fabrizio Romano, a trusted football journalist, revealed that Manchester City and Manchester United are also interested in Neves, but no club has advanced in talks so far, leaving the door open for Arsenal.
Neves’ High Price Tag
Neves’ release clause at Benfica is a hefty £102 million, nearly double the price of Zubimendi.
This steep valuation may influence Arsenal’s decision, especially after last summer’s spending spree, which saw them break their transfer record to sign Declan Rice.
Despite the high cost, the Gunners are eager to close the gap on Premier League champions Manchester City and are prepared for more big-money moves this year.
Premier League Clubs Show Interest
In his Daily Briefing, Romano provided insights into the interest surrounding Neves.
He stated, “Joao Neves has been mentioned as a possible alternative for Arsenal in midfield. My information there remains that Neves has been scouted by Arsenal, Man United, and Man City.
All clubs are interested but nothing is advanced at this stage, while it’s also important to remember that Neves’ price tag is double compared to Zubimendi as his release clause at Benfica is €120m [£102m].”
Neves, despite being only 19, has already made 75 appearances for Benfica and is set to join the Portugal national team for the Euros in Germany this summer.
His impressive performances have earned him high praise from international teammate Joao Felix, who said, “I’ve known Neves for some time, he’s from my brother’s generation.
I’ve seen him play since he was 12, 13 years old. He’s always been like that, short, but he never loses a duel, whether in the air or on the ground.”
David Raya Set for Permanent Move
In addition to their interest in Neves, Arsenal are on the verge of securing their first summer signing by bringing back Brentford goalkeeper David Raya on a permanent basis.
The 28-year-old joined Arsenal on loan last summer and had an outstanding season, winning the Premier League’s Golden Glove.
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, is ‘super happy’ to keep Raya, who has become the clear number one goalkeeper for the Gunners.
Raya kept 16 clean sheets in the Premier League last season, solidifying his position as Arteta’s preferred choice in goal.
Arsenal are now set to activate the buy option included in Raya’s loan deal, while Aaron Ramsdale, who struggled for minutes last season, is expected to be offloaded.
