“I’m sure his time will come and, therefore, he doesn’t need to rush.”

Nemanja Matic has urged Joao Neves to ‘stay at Benfica for a few more years’ amid reports linking him with a summer move to Manchester United.

United are in the market for a new central midfielder in the summer transfer window, with Benfica ace Neves one of the names being linked with a move to Old Trafford.

The 19-year-old has been a key part of the Benfica side so far this season, making a staggering 49 appearances across all competitions. This has led to various reports surrounding his future, with Neves understood to have a massive £105 million release clause in his current contract.

Last month, United captain Bruno Fernandes insisted Neves was ready to make the next big step in his career, though he was coy on the suggestion that they could become club teammates.

"I don’t know if the United rumours are true, but I know he is ready for that big jump," Fernandes said while on international duty. "He is an excellent player, he’s with the national team. That’s also why the big clubs are after him."

However, United favourite Matic does not agree. While he thinks the teenager has a bright future in the game, the former Benfica midfielder believes he would be better off staying where he is in for another season at least.

"I think it’s too early for him to take that step of leaving," Matic told O Jogo. "If it were him, I would stay at Benfica for a few more years to play in the Champions League and to mature more. I’m sure his time will come and, therefore, he doesn’t need to rush.

"Joao is already at a big club at this point. I’m sure his future at Benfica will be very good. I think it’s too early to leave, but of course, in the end, it’s always his decision."