£47m Midfielder Ruben Neves Linked with Newcastle Move Amid Manchester United Interest
Newcastle United could revisit their long-standing interest in Ruben Neves when the January transfer window opens, with reports suggesting the Magpies may be in a stronger position than Manchester United to secure his signature.
The Portuguese midfielder, who joined Al-Hilal from Wolves in 2023 for £47m, has been a consistent performer in Saudi Arabia but is yet to agree an extension to his current deal, which expires in 2026. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, there is a “concrete possibility” Neves will leave the Saudi Pro League within the next two transfer windows. A January loan move back to the Premier League has not been ruled out, particularly with a World Cup on the horizon.
Newcastle, whose owners share links with Al-Hilal through the PIF, had previously targeted Neves before his Middle Eastern switch. While Manchester United have also been monitoring his situation, their recruitment strategy is reportedly focused on younger midfield options.
Adding Neves to Eddie Howe’s squad would represent a significant coup, though midfield is not an urgent area of need for the Magpies. With Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton established as first-choice starters, and Jacob Ramsey joining in the summer, competition is already fierce.
High wage demands may further complicate any deal, but if Newcastle seek to add proven quality, Neves remains a realistic and intriguing target.
