Manchester United are now eyeing a January move for an "unbelievable" Carlos Baleba alternative, who could be perfect for Ruben Amorim.
Man Utd in need of central midfielder
Prior to the transfer deadline, Gary Neville made it clear he felt Amorim needed to bring in a new central midfielder, saying:
"In central midfield I think United have to do a piece of business now.
"I would have liked to have thought that Mainoo could step up and be that person, but it's quite clear that at this moment in time Ruben Amorim is not having him.
"He starts with Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, he then puts Mason Mount back in there and then he brings [Manuel] Ugarte on in front of him, which tells you he's fourth-choice really.
However, Man United were unable to bolster their options in the engine room before the deadline, missing out on Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba, after being quoted over £100m.
It has since emerged that United are planning to hold a meeting with Baleba ahead of potentially revisiting a move, with personal terms already being agreed, but alternative options have also now entered the frame.
That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states the Red Devils are laser-focused on bringing in a new midfielder this January, with Amorim seeking dynamic and creative players.
Ruben Neves
One of the options on the shortlist is Al-Hilal star Ruben Neves, who is described as being perfect for Amorim, given that the manager is looking to bring in a player with plenty of experience, in order to complement his young squad.
Neves joined Al-Hilal from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £47m back in 2023, but with his contract now nearing its end, the Portugal international is keen to return to Europe.
"Unbelievable" Neves is Premier League proven
During his time with Wolves, the central midfielder caught the eye of journalist Raj Chohan, who suggested he could be capable of flourishing at a top club.
Ultimately, the 28-year-old opted to make the move to Saudi Arabia instead, however, where he has continued to impress, albeit in a weaker league, regularly providing assists across the previous two campaigns.
Season League appearances Assists
2023-24 32 12
2024-25 26 8
The Portuguese maestro is also well-known for his ability from dead-ball situations, scoring a superb free-kick in Wolves' 3-0 victory over Brentford back in 2018.
Man United have made a point of bringing in proven Premier League players in recent times, signing Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha in the summer, and Neves would certainly fit the bill in that regard, given his exploits with Wolves.