Real Madrid identify PSG midfield sensation as summer target

La Liga giants Real Madrid have registered a firm interest in PSG midfield sensation Joao Neves ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to a report by Spanish media outlet COPE via Foot Mercato, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez likes the profile of PSG’s Joao Neves, and he aims to bring the Portuguese to his club this summer.

Los Blancos head into their presidential elections soon, and Neves could emerge as one of the players that Perez promises the socios of the club will be bought after he wins.

It will be a tough one to grasp for Real Madrid, despite their financial power, as the 21-year-old has featured in 37 matches across all competitions this season for PSG, scoring seven goals and registering four assists. Head coach Luis Enrique has invested his faith in him to convince the Neves that he remains an integral part of the Paris-based club’s system.

The Portuguese’s contract expires in 2029, and therefore Paris Saint-Germain have leverage to retain their player even if the Los Vikingos came with a resolute approach. This is the third Parisian player linked to Real Madrid in the last few days after the transfer rumours of midfielder Vitinha and right-back Achraf Hakimi, who is a former player of the Spanish side.

Perez is facing Enrique Riquelme in the elections for the Real Madrid presidency. While he has been largely unchallenged throughout his tenure, this time, he might have to make concrete promises of player signings to continue heading the 15-time European Champions.