Porto tell Liverpool to forget about signing teenage midfielder Ruben Neves

Porto have reportedly told Liverpool to forget about signing Ruben Neves. The Anfield club have been strongly linked with the talented 19-year-old and although they are keen to strike a deal for his services, the Portuguese giants have no intention of selling one of their prized assets.

The youngster is seen as a symbol of the club and they are determined to keep hold of him this summer, according to Record. Neves has been with Porto since he was eight years old and made his first-team debut back in 2014.

The midfielder, who has been likened to his international teammate Joao Moutinho, is among the most sought-after young players in Europe. But it has been reported that Liverpool will only be able to sign Neves if they meet his £31.3m ($45.4m) release clause, because Porto are not keen to sell him.

Last year, Porto president Pinto da Costa warned Liverpool against making a move for Neves, who made his international debut in 2015. "I hope he is at Porto for many years," Da Costa said of Liverpool's reported interest, according to Record.

"Ruben has a contract until 2019, not until 2017 as has been written. We would like to keep him at the club and make him a symbol of the progress the club has made. I never want him to leave."