Manchester United in ‘advanced talks’ with Ruben Neves

Manchester United are said to be in “advanced talks” with Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves ahead of a potential move in the summer transfer window, according to reports.

The 26-year-old Portuguese international has been an integral part of Wolves’ midfield since his arrival from Porto in 2017. He has made 33 appearances for the club this season, scoring five goals.

Ruben Neves’ current deal with Wolves runs until 2024, but it has been reported that the Premier League club has lowered its asking price to around £50m due to the midfielder’s contract expiring next summer.

Barcelona were reportedly interested in Neves, but have backed out of the race to sign him, leaving Manchester United as the favourites to secure his signature.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been looking to bolster his midfield options and has reportedly been impressed with Neves’ performances this season. The Red Devils signed Christian Eriksen on a free transfer and Casemiro from Real Madrid last summer to overhaul their midfield, but the Dutch manager is said to be looking for more depth in the position.

Marcel Sabitzer has also impressed since his loan move from Bayern Munich in January, but his long-term future at Old Trafford is dependent on whether the German champions are willing to sell.

Ruben Neves was heavily linked with a move to Manchester City in 2019, but a deal never materialised. He joined Wolves when they were in the Championship and was reunited with then-manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

It remains to be seen whether Ruben Neves will make the switch to Old Trafford, but United are believed to be keen on securing his services to strengthen their midfield options for next season.