Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal eyeing £40m maestro with PL trio set for bidding war with Barcelona
Three Premier League giants have reportedly ‘sounded out’ a move for Ruben Neves, as the Portuguese midfielder looks to leave Wolves at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old is keen on a move to Barcelona. However, with Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal all in the race, his future is far from decided.
Neves certainly has the quality to be a top player on his day. So, it will be interesting to see who wins the race for his signature.
This season, Neves has made 32 appearances in the Premier League for Wolves, scoring six goals and making one assist. The centre-mid has a reputation for scoring absolute screamers on occasion, too – something that any team would love to have at their disposal.
The Wolves captain has repeatedly refused to sign a contract extension at Molineux. Now, with his deal set to expire in June 2024, Wolves will almost certainly sell him this summer to ensure he doesn’t leave on a free transfer.
It’s believed the Midlands club are looking for a fee in the region of £40m for Neves. However, with three Premier League giants in the race, his ultimate price tag may end up being higher than that.
Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal eye Neves move
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Man Utd, Liverpool and Arsenal are all strongly considering making a move for Neves this summer.
They note Barcelona are also in the race. But, given the Spanish club’s ongoing financial issues, it’s unclear whether they can afford his £40m price tag.
Erik ten Hag is believed to be keen to bring in a new midfielder this summer. Indeed, Man Utd could certainly do with some quality support for Casemiro. Scott McTominay has been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford recently, too.
With that in mind, Neves would arguably be a big upgrade on McTominay, so signing him would make sense for the Red Devils.
But, Liverpool are arguably the most desperate for midfield reinforcements. Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner are all set to depart Anfield at the end of the season. Also, the likes of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho are past their prime.
Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister looks to be heading to Liverpool this summer. But, Klopp is on the hunt for more than one centre-mid, so a move for Neves would be a smart one.
Finally, while Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka have been largely excellent for Arsenal this term, there is concern over whether they can compete at the highest level for much longer.
Indeed, but will be 30 by the start of next season and Partey, in particular, is fairly injury prone. So, signing Neves could be a great bit of business for the Gunners, too.
Clearly, there’s going to be a real fight for Neves this summer. Whichever team wins the race, at this stage, is very difficult to call.
