Ruben Neves: Liverpool learn transfer fate after preparing January bid for Wolves midfield star

Liverpool have discovered their chances of upgrading their midfield with the signing of Ruben Neves from Wolves this month, according to a report.

Ruben Neves is one of the main midfielders Liverpool have been looking at as they aim to upgrade their midfield. With Premier League experience, the Portugal international could be a ready-made solution to their problems in the middle of the park.

Reports have recently suggested that Liverpool could try their luck with a bid for Neves late in the January transfer window. Hence, it could almost be time for them to test Wolves’ resolve.

Neves is only under contract at Molineux until the end of next season, so his value may be starting to decline, despite his ability. It makes a deal appealing to Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp is eager to refresh his midfield after a number of the options at his disposal failed to reach their usual standards in the early stages of this season.

Fabinho has been out of form, Naby Keita has had injury issues and will leave on a free transfer at the end of the season, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is also in his last year with Liverpool, to name but a few.

Furthermore, Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Thiago Alcantara – while all still good players – are above the age of 30.

It makes sense for Liverpool to be looking at the 25-year-old Neves then. But according to Football Insider, which has been revealing information about their plans to bid for him, the former Porto star will not be on the move this month.

The online outlet claims that, despite Liverpool making an enquiry, Wolves are not listening to offers for one of their key players while involved in a relegation battle.

Indeed, it will be just as important for them to keep Neves in hope of retaining their Premier League status, as it would be for Liverpool to add him to their own squad and strive to climb up the table.

Therefore, Wolves will reject any offer Liverpool make, unless it is of a magnitude that would be impossible to turn down (which doesn’t seem to align with the Reds’ usual strategy).

Liverpool could sign Ruben Neves in summer instead

There is a glimmer of hope that Neves could end up at Anfield in 2023, though. According to the report, Wolves “will listen to offers” for the Jorge Mendes client in the summer.

It seems they are losing hope of tying him down to a longer contract. Hence, it would make sense to cash in when there is only one year remaining on his deal, to avoid the risk of a free transfer in 2024.

Liverpool will still need to look at their midfield in the summer. Thus, they might be one of the main bidders for Neves when the time comes.

The Wolves captain has made 237 appearances across his career for the club, including 25 this season. Four of his 28 Wolves goals have come in the 2022-23 campaign.

It seems he has a few more to add before he thinks about a change of scenery. Liverpool would be a suitable next step, but committing to Wolves for another six months to help them stay in the Premier League could add another element to his character, further setting him up for future success.

Wolves will just be hoping they can retain their top-flight status, since relegation might affect Neves’ transfer value even more.

READ MORE: Liverpool midfield transfer: Most likely Klopp signing named as selling club targets replacement