'He's ready for that big jump' - Bruno Fernandes backs Benfica's £103m jewel Joao Neves to seal Man Utd transfer as he talks up talents of 'excellent' Portugal team-mate

United have been linked with a move for the Benfica wonderkid for a long time, although the Portuguese giants denied that the English club came up with an offer in the January transfer window. Now, Red Devils star and Portuguese midfielder Fernandes has backed his compatriot to make the move to Old Trafford, insisting that the youngster is ready to take the next step in his career.

Speaking to reporters, Fernandes said: "I don’t know if United rumours are true, but I know he is ready for that big jump. He is an excellent player, he’s with the national team. That’s also why the big clubs are after him."

The 19-year-old has regularly featured in Benfica's starting lineup in the current season and has played 45 matches across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists. His rich vein of form in club football earned him his maiden national team call-up in October 2023 and he made his international debut against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Fernandes and Neves will be next seen in action for the Portugal national team as they take on Sweden in an international friendly on March 21. Five days later, they face Slovenia in another friendly clash.