Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves is reportedly keen on joining Real Madrid this year, thus dealing a blow to Manchester United’s prospects.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Ruben Neves is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The Spanish giants are keen on bolstering their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder this year. So, the 28-year-old Al-Hilal midfielder has emerged as a target for Los Blancos.
The Santa Maria da Feira native is also a target for Manchester United, with the Red Devils leading the race to sign him for a long time. However, the latest report has dealt a blow to the Premier League club, as Neves is keen on joining Real Madrid after his spell with Al-Hilal ends.
How has Ruben Neves fared at Al-Hilal?
Ruben Neves has been one of the best players in the Saudi Pro League since completing a surprise move to Al-Hilal from Wolverhampton Wanderers in July 2023. The 28-year-old has been exceptional for Al-Hilal, winning nearly half a dozen trophies, including the Saudi Pro League title, with the club.
The Portuguese international has made over 100 appearances thus far for Al-Hilal while chipping in with 14 goals and 25 assists. However, Neves faces an uncertain future at the Saudi Pro League club, as he has entered the final six months of his contract. The situation has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs. Manchester United and Real Madrid are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
A man in demand
Manchester United’s interest in Ruben Neves is understandable. The Red Devils are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder, as Casemiro is on the wrong side of 30. Additionally, Manuel Ugarte has failed to make their mark since joining Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain 18 months ago. So, Neves is a viable target for Manchester United.
As for Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso has a stacked midfield unit. However, Dani Ceballos faces an uncertain future at the Santiago Bernabeu, while widespread reports have linked Eduardo Camavinga with Premier League bigwigs. So, Neves is an option worth considering for Real Madrid.
The latest report has boosted Real Madrid’s prospects, as Neves is “desperate” to join Los Blancos after his spell with Al-Hilal ends this year. It will be interesting to see Manchester United’s response after the latest update on the 28-year-old Portuguese midfielder’s future.
