Arteta could take Rice to the next level as Arsenal eye £105m "perfect midfielder" - opinion

What Joao Neves could offer to Arsenal

In the 2023/24 edition of Liga Portugal, no midfielder averages more touches per 90 (97.07) than the Portugal international, and as a player who loves to be on the ball, the defensive maestro has a lot to show for it.

Lauded as a “sensational” asset to his boyhood club by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Neves, with his playing style credited as that of a “box-to-box phenomenon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig in his scouting report of the teen.

Described as a “perfect midfielder” by Kulig, the 2004-born dynamo is hailed for his ability to hold himself in physical battles, as well as staying “one step of the opposition” when it comes to progressing play.

For Arsenal, the signs shown by the youngster make for encouraging viewing, particularly with reference to the individual the Gunners seek to complete their midfield.

After signing Declan Rice in the summer, there was hope that the Englishman could thrive alongside Thomas Partey, however, his Ghanaian counterpart has struggled to stay fit, with rumours also rising to suggest his future in north London is under threat.

Neves 23/24 Liga Portugal vs Rice 23/24 Premier League

Statistic - per 90

Joao Neves

Declan Rice

Pass completion %

88.0%

91.2%

Progressive passes

7.07

6.96

Progressive carries

1.56

1.41

Successful take-ons

1.80

0.53

Tackles

3.12

2.11

Interceptions

0.96

1.41

Blocks

2.16

1.50

Aerials won

1.92

0.97

Figures via FBref

As portrayed in the table above, Neves could be the perfect suitor to partner the £105m star going forward, with his ability to progress and act as the anchor putting the Benfica starlet in good position to be Rice’s partner in the engine room pivot at the Emirates.The Tavira-born sensation treasures his strengths in progressing into the final third, as well as being an accomplished tackler, holding the keys to allow the Englishman to roam forward - something that could well take him to the next level as a midfielder.

Kulig stressed that it could be “incredible to think” of just how good the 19-year-old could become, making Arsenal’s reported interest an exciting prospect, as the eye-capturing midfielder continues to showcase his fearless edge in his homeland.