Arsenal eyeing surprise move for Portuguese wonderkid

Arsenal are eyeing a surprise move for Portuguese wonderkid Joao Neves, according to Fichajes.

The Gunners are likely to bolster their midfield department this summer and they could focus on a defensive-minded player.

Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey are expected to leave while Jorginho has also been fancied to head for the exit door.

Fichajes claim that the Gunners have now joined the hunt for Neves, who has a release clause worth €120m in his contract.

Manchester United and Liverpool are also monitoring the youngster, who has his sights on a bigger challenge elsewhere.

His agent has already rejected contract negotiations with Benfica with the plan to discuss a big-money transfer this summer.

Neves would be a statement signing for the Gunners. His arrival would allow Declan Rice to operate higher up the field.

Rice has already shown his creativity from the number eight role lately, and the arrival of Neves would provide extra security.

Jorginho lacks pace at the current stage of his career while Partey has been largely injury-prone during his time at the club.