According to Fichajes, Ruben Neves remains a key January target for Manchester United, with the club ready to accelerate their pursuit of the 28-year-old Portuguese international. The Red Devils feel the need for a top-notch midfielder, but face competition from the likes of Tottenham and Newcastle United in the hunt for the Al-Hilal midfielder.
Manchester United failed with their pursuit of Carlos Baleba back in the summer, which demonstrated their need for a top-level central midfielder. Ahead of the January window, the Brighton star is part of their list alongside some other high-profile names such as Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson, but the Red Devils are unlikely to sign either, owing to a lot of complicated factors.
While they might be open to waiting until the summer for the right profile, Manchester United are sensing a market opportunity with Ruben Neves. The former Wolves midfielder, now at Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, is coming to the end of his contract, which expires next summer, with the Red Devils already contemplating a January move for the 28-year-old Portuguese international.
Al-Hilal were expected to keep the midfielder in January despite his expiring contract, although that might depend on the player’s stance. It appears, Neves is keen on returning to the Premier League, where other teams like Tottenham and Newcastle United are keen.
Eddie Howe wants a top-notch midfielder to come in and improve the depth options in the positions, and given that they share the same ownership with Al-Hilal, a deal could be facilitated. Tottenham are also keen to add an experienced midfielder to play alongside Joao Palhinha or compete with him, as the 28-year-old Portuguese international could be the right choice.
Manchester United could be ready to accelerate their pursuit of Neves ahead of January, with the 28-year-old Portuguese international seemingly a perfect fit for coach Ruben Amorim’s plans. The team has lacked options beyond Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in the centre, as the others behind them have not performed to the required levels.
Neves is reportedly available for €20 million, as per a report, which represents a market opportunity in the sense that the player has all the knowledge of the Premier League. Manchester United may have to convince the 28-year-old Portuguese international to take a pay cut from his current salary, but he would be an amazing signing in the context of the Red Devils breaking into the top four.
