Manchester United are reportedly prepared to make a move for Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves in the upcoming January transfer window, with a potential fee of around £20 million being discussed.
Midfield Overhaul on the Cards at Old Trafford
The potential acquisition of Neves comes as United look to address uncertainty in their defensive midfield positions. The futures of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, and summer signing Manuel Ugarte are all in doubt. Brazilian veteran Casemiro has been linked with a switch to Major League Soccer (MLS) when his contract expires on 30 June.
Ugarte, who has made just two Premier League appearances this season, is already attracting interest from clubs in Turkey. Meanwhile, young talent Kobbie Mainoo is expected to push for another loan move in January after a proposed switch to Napoli in August was blocked by the club.
Neves Seeks Premier League Return
Ruben Neves, who will turn 29 in March, is said to be keen on a return to English football. The experienced playmaker spent six successful years with Wolverhampton Wanderers before his £47 million transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in 2023.
With his contract at Al-Hilal set to expire in the summer, the Saudi Pro League club is willing to sanction a sale next month for a significantly reduced fee. Neves's proven Premier League pedigree makes him an attractive option for United as they seek immediate reinforcements.
Strategic Moves, Not Panic Buys
Club sources have emphasised that any January business will be strategic, focusing on operations that can be brought forward six months from the summer plan, rather than reactive signings. A host of names have been linked with a move to Old Trafford, including:
- Elliot Anderson (Newcastle)
- Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
- Conor Gallagher (Chelsea)
- Carlos Baleba (Brighton)
- Tyler Adams (Bournemouth)
- Joao Gomes (Wolves)
Neves has now emerged as a concrete option within this framework. It is worth noting that no formal interest from United has been confirmed, and the former Porto man has also been associated with a move to Newcastle United.
In a related subplot, Al-Hilal made a bold attempt to sign United captain Bruno Fernandes last summer and could revisit that interest at the season's end. This follows Fernandes's own admission this week that he was hurt by suggestions the club would consider selling him for a fee in excess of £100 million.
