Manchester United are gearing up for a major midfield overhaul across the next two transfer windows as they look to fix a long-standing weakness in the squad.
Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton sit prominently on United’s shortlist, but prising any of them away in January looks highly unlikely.
That reality has pushed United to explore more attainable options, and an intriguing name has now emerged.
According to The Times, Ruben Neves has rejected a new contract offer at Al-Hilal and wants to return to the Premier League.
This update has reportedly left Man United and Newcastle United on alert.
Al-Hilal splashed £47 million to lure Neves away from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023.
The Saudi side are believed to be willing to sell him for around £18m in January, or risk losing him for nothing next summer.
Reports further suggest United could drive that price even lower, with Al-Hilal negotiating from a weakened position.
Neves made 253 appearances during his six-year stay at Wolves.
He was instrumental in their 2017-18 promotion campaign and played a central role in establishing Wolves as a competitive top-flight force.
His sudden move to Saudi Arabia came as a major surprise at the time, especially with several elite European clubs keen on his signature.
Neves is a proven Premier League player and could be a decent solution to United’s midfield problems.
Manager Ruben Amorim has relied heavily on Casemiro as the holding midfielder this campaign.
Manuel Ugarte may look tailor-made for the role on paper, but the former Paris Saint-Germain ace has struggled to impose himself in English football.
Neves would represent a clear upgrade in terms of passing range and game management, even if questions remain whether he can still perform at his peak level.
The Red Devils could sign him at a bargain price next month before breaking the bank for one of their top three transfer targets.
Stats from Fotmob.com