Manchester City are reportedly considering replacing Kevin De Bruyne with Benfica sensation Joao Neves this summer. According to TEAMtalk, Manchester City are considering Joao Neves as a direct replacement for Kevin De Bruyne this summer. The Benfica star has garnered massive interest in this market, with Manchester United also keen on the 19-year-old, who has a EUR120 million release clause.

Joao Neves to Manchester City? Manchester City have been quiet so far in the transfer window but could spring to life with a sensational signing of sorts. The report links them with Joao Neves, as they consider the 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder 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 considerable gap in Pep Guardiola's squad. Should the Belgian depart, the club will want a suitable talent to replace their talismanic playmaker, with a host of options being discussed in the background.

Interest in Joao Neves has arisen but is also a bit complicated, given that Manchester United are also keen and expected to make an offer for the 19-year-old midfielder. On the other hand, Benfica are not eager to sell him for a low price and will point to the EUR120 million release clause to sell the young midfielder.

Club President Rui Costa has made their stance abundantly clear, although they could consider bids upwards of EUR100 million. Meanwhile, there are questions on why Guardiola might consider Neves as the replacement for De Bruyne, considering the 19-year-old is closer to Rodri in terms of profile and not anywhere near the Belgian's attacking prowess.

Manchester City's other Kevin De Bruyne replacements options Manchester City are interested in Xavi Simons, as they could angle for a move for the PSG star. There is speculation the two clubs might even consider a swap involving the Dutchman and Bernardo Silva. Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz is also a big target. However, the Bundesliga Player of the Year is expected to stay put for another season before being sold and will be very expensive.

They have also held an interest in Jamal Musiala, although the Bayern Munich star would reportedly prefer a switch to 'dream club' Real Madrid. However, the summer window will answer a lot of questions regarding De Bruyne and the replacement option Manchester City would consider for the Belgian, with Joao Neves among the candidates.