Transfer: PSG Sign Joao Neves, West Ham Unveil Niclas Fullkrug

Paris Saint Germain have signed Portuguese and Benfica midfielder Joao Neves in a transfer deal valued at £60 million.

The 19-year-old Portuguese international, previously linked with Manchester United, has committed to a five-year contract with the French champions.

Neves emerged in the Benfica first team in January last year and swiftly established himself as a pivotal figure for his childhood club, amassing 75 appearances across all competitions and netting four goals.

Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the president of PSG, lauded Neves as one of Portugal’s most promising talents and expressed his satisfaction with the player’s desire to join Paris St-Germain.

“Joao is one of the most talented players in Portugal and internationally,” he said.

“He was so passionate to join Paris St-Germain and determined to fight for the jersey – which is what we expect of all our players.”

Meanwhile, West Ham United have secured the services of German striker Niclas Fullkrug from Borussia Dortmund for a transfer fee worth £27 million.

The 31-year-old, who transferred from Werder Bremen to Dortmund last summer, recorded 15 goals in 46 appearances during the 2023-24 season. He also featured in the Champions League final.

After signing his four-year deal with West Ham, the German international underscored his anticipation to compete in the Premier League while emphasizing the quality of West Ham.

“I’m delighted to be here, and I can’t wait to get out on the pitch with my new team-mates,” he said.

“I think the Premier League is the best in the world, and for me, it is the right time to move over to England and play for a big club like West Ham.

“I have been thinking about West Ham for a long time now – I know the technical director, Tim Steidten, very well because we have history at Werder Bremen together, and I have watched some games and seen how much quality there is in the team.”

This signing adds to a series of acquisitions by West Ham under new manager Julen Lopetegui, signalling the club’s intent ahead of the upcoming season.