With Real Madrid set to enter the market for a new midfielder this summer, several prominent names have been linked as possible targets.
One such player who has been credited with an interest from Los Blancos is PSG rising superstar Joao Neves.
Reports suggested that the Portuguese international is one of the three signings that Florentino Perez wants to make once he wins the presidential elections.
Joao Neves commits to PSG
However, Joao Neves has moved to dismiss speculation surrounding a possible transfer to Real Madrid, stating that he intends to remain at PSG next season despite growing rumours.
Joao Neves is on Real Madrid’s radar. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Speaking after PSG’s Champions League triumph over Arsenal this past weekend, Neves made his position clear.
“I want to continue playing with this group of champion players we have at PSG,” said Neves, as quoted by Defensa Central.
While such comments are not unusual following a major trophy win, the midfielder appeared genuinely enthusiastic about continuing with the squad that has enjoyed sustained success at the highest level.
“We’re a real team, I’m very happy, and I want to keep enjoying this with them,” he said.
He also looked ahead to next season’s ambitions, making it clear that his focus is already shifting towards defending PSG’s European crown.
Neves eyeing a third-straight UCL win with PSG. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
“We have to defend the title again next year,” Neves stated.
Real Madrid have other options
Although Joao Neves has been one of the most discussed names in recent weeks, he is not the only midfielder linked with Real Madrid.
The Spanish heavyweights continue to be associated with two other major targets: Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea and Rodri of Manchester City.
Fernandez’s situation at Chelsea is quite delicate and the Argentine international is said to be open to a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
As for Rodri, Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme recently claimed he could secure the Spaniard’s signing, although people close to the player have denied any agreement exists.