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Manchester United are expected to try to bring Ruben Neves back to the Premier League in January.
With United’s midfield in desperate need of control, energy and quality in the middle of the park, INEOS are tipped to back head coach Ruben Amorim with a midfield addition this winter.
A realistic option is former Wolverhampton Wanderers star Neves.
The Neves family tree
A proven success in the Premier League, Neves continued his impressive form after moving to the Middle East in 2023, where he was central to Al-Hilal’s midfield in the Saudi Pro League. His achievements have not gone unnoticed, with United head coach Ruben Amorim reportedly a big admirer.
Reports claim that United could secure the 28-year-old for around £18 million.
Transfer twist
But while all eyes are on whether INEOS can complete this deal, an intriguing update has emerged: Neves could hold out for a summer move to La Liga.
Although he could leave Al-Hilal in January for a modest fee, the Portugal international could still opt to end his contract with the Saudi club and leave as a free agent.
Now former Wolves and Al-Hilal player Sami Al-Jaber claims Neves is leaning towards seeing out his contract before joining Real Madrid as a free agent.
“I fear that Neves will move from Al-Hilal to Real Madrid on a free transfer after his contract with the club expires at the end of this season,” Al-Jaber said via MBC. IF.
Contract complications
Why would United struggle to get this deal? It could depend on the type of contract they offer, with Al-Jaber revealing:
“There are Premier League clubs who want to sign Neves, and the contracts they are offering him are for three years, that is until he turns 31. Real Madrid are also interested, and I am sure there are other clubs who want Neves.”
If true, Neves could hold out for a move to the Santiago Bernabéu; this is a scenario that would worry INEOS.
United’s winter plans are in jeopardy
United have already missed out on Antoine Semenyo, their favorite winter target, and losing another realistic option would be a major blow to their plans.
Nevertheless, with Bruno Fernandes sidelined through injury, United have every incentive to push hard for the Neves deal.
If United can capture the Al-Hilal star, his qualities could provide the strength and balance that Amorim’s midfield craves in the battle for a top-four spot.
Featured image Megan Briggs via Getty Images
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