Who is PSG's new midfield signing Joao Neves? Details here
What's the story
Paris Saint-Germain bolstered their midfield by roping in Portugal's Joao Neves from Benfica on a five-year contract on August 5. As per Fabrizio Romano, PSG have shelled out €60m fixed fee for the young midfielder with another €10m in add-ons. Meanwhile, fellow Portuguese midfielder Renato Sanches has gone to Benfica on loan with buy option as part of the Neves deal.
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Why does this story matter?
Neves had already agreed to join PSG in July. Notably, the PSG project presented by Luis Campos was approved by the player and his camp. Also, the presence of manager Luis Enrique was considered to be a key factor. Manchester United were reportedly interested in the defensive midfielder but never made a formal bid. PSG get more depth in midfield with Neves' capture.
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Neves made 75 appearances for Benfica
Neves came through the ranks at Benfica and made his first-team debut in January last year. He made a total of 75 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring four times (2 assists). Last season, Neves made 55 appearances, scoring three goals (1 assist).
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Costliest midfielder in PSG's transfer history
Neves is the costliest midfielder in PSG's transfer history. Notably, the French champions signed Manuel Ugarte from Sporting last summer in a £51.1m deal (€60m).
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Neves brings quality as a defensive midfielder
Neves played as a deep-lying playmaker for Benfica. He was primarily in a double pivot in a 4-2-3-1 formation. He is known for his composure and control on the ball in addition to quality in passing. Neves is versatile and would fit in well with his Portugal teammate Vitinha. Neves would be keen to showcase his strengths in terms of tackles and ball recoveries.
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Nine caps for Portugal
Neves earned his maiden cap for Portugal in October 2023. He has since then made 9 appearances for the Seleção, including two matches at the 2024 European Championship, where Portugal reached the quarter-finals.
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Accolades earned by Neves
Neves was named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year in 2023-24. He also own five Primeira Liga Midfielder of the Month awards. Before, he won the Primeira Liga 2022-23 title alongside the Supertaça Candido de Oliveira in 2023.