Ruben Neves has decided on his future after being linked with a January move to Manchester United.
The January transfer window is coming to its closing stages, with Manchester United yet to add to their squad.
It can be difficult to get deals done midway through the season, though United signed Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu this time last year, both of whom went on to contribute positively to the first team.
United made enquiries about Carlos Baleba before missing out on Antoine Semenyo, which tells you that the midfield will take priority, while the attacking department could be granted further additions to help Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.
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Plans are also being made to let players go, with Casemiro announcing his departure before the end of the season.
Casemiro’s exit will only enhance the need for midfield reinforcements because finding a replacement for the experienced Brazilian will be at the top of United’s agenda.
Ruben Neves warming up against Al Fayha
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Ruben Neves signs new deal at Al-Hilal
At the beginning of January, Al-Hilal midfield ace Ruben Neves appeared to be running down his contract and seeking a move back to Europe.
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After spending a chunk of his career at Wolves, Neves became an option for United, having Premier League experience under his belt.
The deal didn’t materialise throughout the month, and there are now claims from Italy that Neves is on the verge of agreeing on a new contract to remain in the Middle East.
According to Gianluigi Longari, Neves has agreed to a three-year contract extension to remain at Al-Hilal, extending his stay until 2029.
Neves has played for Al-Hilal since 2023, following a transfer from Wolves that cost £47 million.
He won the 2023/24 Saudi Pro League in his first season and will now remain at Al-Hilal.
The Red Devils were not the only Premier League club linked with offering Neves a return route to England. Newcastle were also understood to be interested in the Portugal international.
This update means United can move on and forget about Neves by removing the 28-year-old from their radar.
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Ruben Neves stats in the Premier League
Although Neves is unlikely to ever return to the Premier League, after committing his future to the Saudi Pro League, he boasts an impressive record for a midfielder who played for Wolves.
Neves played in better Wolves teams than what they have now, sitting at the bottom of the Premier League, making 177 appearances in the top flight.
Those games resulted in 21 goals and nine assists.
Neves could have added to that if he joined United this month.
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