Ruben Neves could edge closer to joining Barcelona in the summer, with Wolverhampton Wanderers signing Joao Gomes.
According to SPORT, Barcelona are edging closer to signing Ruben Neves as their primary midfield target next summer. The Catalan giants are not in a financially stable position to conclude a deal this month, and any move will come in the summer.
Ruben Neves has made a name for himself after his exploits with Wolves over the years. The 25-year-old Portuguese international joined the Midlands outfit when they were in the Championship and played an instrumental role in their promotion to the Premier League.
While Wolves have remained in the top tier since then, Neves has been an important figure for them. He has managed to hold the midfield together for many years, although there are fears he might depart after the current season concludes.
Neves came close to joining Arsenal in the summer of 2021. The Gunners wanted him to replace Granit Xhaka, who was close to securing a move to AS Roma. In the end, the Swiss international remained at the Emirates, thus scuppering any move for the Wolves midfielder.
The 25-year-old Portuguese international has continued to perform at the highest level. But things could change for him in the summer. Wolves have already recruited highly-rated Brazilian midfielder Joao Gomes from Flamengo. His arrival could gradually signal the end for Neves at the Molineux.
Barcelona are interested in the 25-year-old Portuguese international, with the player keen on a move. The Catalan giants are facing tremendous financial troubles, meaning they cannot think of a move for Neves or anyone in January.
The Blaugrana may plan another foray into the transfer market in the summer and have prioritised signing a new midfielder. Despite holding a strong interest in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, Barcelona are no longer in the race for the enforcer.
Zubimendi’s €60 million clause is deemed unaffordable going by Barcelona’s current predicament. They feel comfortable signing Neves in that period, as they believe he will cost considerably less than the Real Sociedad star.
Neves dreams of playing at Camp Nou, but any move will depend on Wolves’ decision. The arrivals of Gomes and Matheus Nunes in the last two windows might signal Neves’s end. The 25-year-old Portuguese international will play a starring role between now and the end of the season.
A move to Barcelona could also depend on the fee that Wolves demand. There are fears they might demand exorbitant price for him, which may not suit the Blaugrana.
