Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder and Barcelona target Ruben Neves is reportedly open to offers from Premier League clubs.
According to a report from Spanish publication SPORT, Ruben Neves was keen on moving to Barcelona. But the Catalan giants are unwilling to sign the player in the summer because Xavi Hernandez prefers a different profile of midfielder. The 25-year-old reportedly has interest from Premier League clubs Liverpool and Manchester United as well.
Initially, the Portuguese midfielder was keen on moving away from the Premier League. But due to Barcelona’s stance, he is prepared to consider offers from England. And it remains to be seen whether the Liverpool and Manchester United can convince the player to join them.
Liverpool are in desperate need of midfield reinforcements, and Neves would be an upgrade on players like Jordan Henderson and James Milner. The Portuguese international has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the league since moving to Wolves. So he has emerged as a viable target for Liverpool.
Apart from being an exceptional passer, Neves will help out defensively and chip in with long-range goals as well. Meanwhile, Manchester United need to bring in upgrades on players like Fred and Scott McTominay as well.
Both Liverpool and Manchester United have the financial resources to pull off the transfer. And it remains to be seen where Neves ends up eventually. A player of his quality might want to compete in the UEFA Champions League next season. And in that case, Manchester United might hold an advantage.
The Red Devils are well placed to finish in the top four as compared to Liverpool, who are currently tenth in the league table. Managers like Jurgen Klopp and Erik ten Hag have a proven track record of improving players. And they could help the 25-year-old improve further and develop as a footballer.
The player’s agent, Jorge Mendes has given preference to Barcelona when it comes to the interest in his client. But the Portuguese super agent is unwilling to dither any longer and is prepared to consider offers from Premier League clubs now. It will be interesting to see who among Liverpool and Manchester United wins the race to sign the Portuguese international.