Arsenal has received information regarding the potential availability of midfield target Ruben Neves ahead of the January transfer window.
Neves concluded a six-year stint in England over the summer, departing Wolverhampton Wanderers for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. His move to Saudi Arabia surprised many, given his established status as a top-level player entering his prime at 26.
However, within just a few months in Saudi Arabia, Neves is reportedly eager to make a return to the Premier League. Arsenal could serve as a pathway back to European football for the Portuguese midfielder.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
As Arsenal seeks to bolster their midfield in January, uncertainties surround Thomas Partey’s future at the club, compounded by his extended absence due to a muscle injury.
Neves, potentially available on loan, has caught the attention of Arsenal according to recent report , Arsenal has been monitoring several players, including Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa, Andre from Fluminense, Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, and Joao Neves from Benfica.
Newcastle United is also interested in Neves, but their plans to acquire him during the January transfer window face a potential obstacle due to a proposed Premier League rule change. Sources suggest that top-flight clubs will convene later this month to vote on a regulation that would prohibit clubs owned by the same entity from loaning players to each other.
Newcastle, predominantly backed by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund with an 80% majority stake, also controls four Saudi Pro League clubs: Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli. The outcome of the vote remains uncertain, raising questions about whether they would permit a player of Neves’ caliber to join a Premier League rival.
Despite being a key player for Al Hilal, featuring in 17 games since his June signing and contributing with two goals and an assist, Neves continues to play a crucial role in Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad. He has recently joined the Selecao for their November internationals.