Manchester United are said to be confident of signing Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves on a free next summer, and it could be the bargain addition of 2026.
Neves made the move to Saudi Arabia back in 2023, perhaps due to the riches on offer in the Middle East. The former Wolves midfielder reportedly earns in the region of £340,000-a-week with Al-Hilal, but his contract is due to expire at the end of the season, meaning he can find a new club on a free transfer.
When Neves left Wolves, he was just 26 years old and in the prime years of his career, with many believing it was a shame to see him leave the Premier League. A return could be on the cards, however, and it will be interesting to see whether he wants to return to Europe when his deal expires in Saudi Arabia.
Man Utd Eyeing Ruben Neves in Bargain Deal
ruben neves
According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester United believe they will be able to bring Neves to Old Trafford next summer when his contract expires with Al-Hilal. Manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly personally requested the Portuguese midfielder, who is keen on a return to the Premier League.
Considering Neves will be available on a free, it could be the bargain of 2026. Neves would easily slot into the United midfield and become one of their better players, and he could be the exact profile that they need in the middle of the park.
Neves would be an upgrade on their current options, and he already has a relationship with Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes from Portugal.
Ruben Amorim Related
Mainoo Starts: Ruben Amorim’s Strongest 4-3-3 Man Utd Lineup After AFCON Departures
With Mbeumo, Amad and Mazraoui heading to AFCON, Amorim is preparing a 4-3-3. This is Man Utd’s strongest XI during their absence.
Ruben Neves is the Ideal Profile for Man Utd
MixCollage-25-Jul-2024-05-48-PM-8860
It's easy to forget that Neves moved to Al-Hilal for a significant fee, and he was in his prime at Wolves, performing as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. Securing him on a free transfer would be a real bargain, but you'd imagine United will have plenty of competition.
Neves is comfortable on the ball and loves to receive it from the defenders, something United lack in the middle at the moment. He's a leader, as seen during his time at Wolves, and he's a player who demands a lot from his teammates. The Portuguese international is already suited to the Premier League, so it could be an absolute steal for United if they bring him in next summer.