Can United get Neves from Saudi Arabia?
Manchester United could reignite their long-standing interest in Ruben Neves after developments in Saudi Arabia cast doubt on his long-term future at Al-Hilal. The Portuguese midfielder has reportedly rejected a firm contract offer from the club, sparking discussions over a possible mid-season sale.
Neves is believed to be unwilling to commit beyond the expiry of his current contract in June 2026. Although he is willing to see out the remainder of his contract, Al-Hilal would prefer to avoid losing him for nothing. That’s why he is exploring options to recoup some of the £47 million they paid to sign him two years ago. If a suitable proposal is made, a departure in January cannot be ruled out.
The 28-year-old left Wolves after five influential Premier League seasons, during which he established himself as one of the division’s most reliable midfielders and captained the club in his final season. United were previously credited with an interest, but no formal offer was made before Al-Hilal stepped in with a financially superior offer that the Reds were reluctant to match.
Despite spending two seasons outside Europe, Neves has remained a regular for Portugal alongside Bruno Fernandes. He will look to add to his 63 caps ahead of the 2026 World Cup, keeping a return to a top European competition firmly on his agenda.
According to TeamTalk, intermediaries were contacted after Al-Hilal informed interested parties that Neves would not extend his stay. United and Newcastle United were contacted to gauge whether their admiration remained, suggesting a move to Old Trafford is no longer outside the realm of possibility if financial terms align.
Devils unleash Bayindir
Manchester United are also willing to consider a bid for Altay Bayindir in January, with interest increasing from Turkey. Reports from Turkish Football suggest that Besiktas have identified the goalkeeper as a priority target as part of a major squad overhaul planned for the second half of the season.
Bayindir is said to be keen to secure regular first-team football as he believes consistent minutes are crucial if he is to cement his status as Turkey’s number one ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 27-year-old already has 11 caps to his name and most recently played in a 2-2 draw against Spain in November.
At club level, Bayindir started the 2025/26 season as Ruben Amorim’s preferred option between the posts, starting the first six Premier League games. However, his place was later taken by Senne Lammens, which put him back into a secondary role and limited his opportunities.
He is expected to feature when United start their FA Cup campaign against Brighton in January, but that appearance could prove crucial. An early exit from the competition could mean his last appearance of the season, increasing the chance of a winter transfer.
Considering United only paid £4.3m to sign Bayindir from Fenerbahce in 2023, the club are unlikely to stand in his way if a reasonable offer comes along. A return to a familiar competition, where he previously excelled, would be a logical next step for both player and club as United continue to reshape their squad under Amorim.
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