Story byBruno Fernandes was ‘100 per cent’ trying to convince international teammate to join United, shares VitinhaStretty NewsTue, March 3, 2026 at 8:45 AM UTC·2 min readVitinha has revealed that, prior to Joao Neves’ move to Paris Saint-Germain, Bruno Fernandes was ‘100%’ trying to persuade the youngster to join Manchester United instead. The former Benfica starlet made the switch to the Parc des Princes in August 2024 in a deal worth up to £60 million, doing so after United had signed his predecessor, Manuel Ugarte, for an initial £42m. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYHow Joao Neves has fared after rebuffing United approach(Photo by Stuart Franklin/)Before Neves’ sights were set on Paris, the Red Devils were well among the mix of clubs trying to snap up his signature. His continued stellar form in his native Portugal led to him becoming one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe at just 19 years of age. Ultimately, when the Qatari-owned French outfit presented him with a lucrative offer he couldn’t refuse, United conceded defeat and began pursuing alternatives – hence turning their attention to Ugarte. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIt goes without saying that the now-21-year-old has only continued to flourish in France, as he played a pivotal role at the heart of Luis Enrique’s treble-winning side in the youngster’s maiden season, which included the club’s first-ever Champions League title. In total across 2025, PSG claimed a remarkable five trophies, with Neves influential in each campaign. Vitinha reflects on Fernandes and Neves talks(Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/)In a newly released interview with Canal 11, Vitinha has revealed that both he and Fernandes were working tirelessly to sway Neves towards their respective teams at the time. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWatch below:All three have been sharing the stage at international level for Portugal under Roberto Martinez, whose side is expected to be a real force to be reckoned with at this summer’s World Cup. More Stories / Latest NewsBruno Fernandes was ‘100 per cent’ trying to convince international teammate to join United, shares Vitinha Mar 3 2026, 8:42Romano: ‘Keep a close eye’ on INEOS signing who’s being ‘phased out’ by Carrick ahead of potential summer sale Mar 3 2026, 7:15Casemiro has told INEOS his replacement is already playing in the PL – and his contract talks with his club have stalled Mar 3 2026, 6:25.