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News
- 33 minutes ago
Man Utd target Saudi Pro League star as 'priority' January transfer for Premier League return
Suraj Radia
- 11 Sept 2025 17:00 BST
- 4 min read
News
Manchester United have reportedly turned to a former Premier League star as a ‘priority’ signing in January in order to solve their midfield woes.
United were unable to sign a midfielder this summer, leaving Ruben Amorim forced to rely on the unbalanced pairing of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes as his starting duo in the middle of the park.
The Red Devils have failed to add a deep-lying playmaker to their squad despite numerous attempts, having pursued the likes of Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Angelo Stiller during the summer.
The situation has left United ready to act in the winter and Spanish outlet fichajes claim that former Wolves captain Ruben Neves has been identified as the ‘ideal’ player to bolster their midfield.
Current ETV
Rúben Neves
DM, M (C)
Al-Hilal
Rúben Neves
DM, M (C)
Al-Hilal
ETV Range
€13.8M - €16.9M
Neves is in the final year of his contract with Al-Hilal and United are reported to believe that the presence of Amorim as well as his Portuguese compatriots Diogo Dalot and Fernandes could tempt the 28-year-old to return to the Premier League.
However, the deal will depend on Al-Hilal’s desire to negotiate for one of their star players, with United hoping that Neves’ willingness to leave could convince the Saudi Pro League side to consider his exit mid-season.
United hoping to convince Neves of Premier League return
Neves joined Al-Hilal in 2023 for €55 million after establishing himself as one of the standout midfielders in the Premier League during his six years with Wolves.
United are said to be keen on bringing in a player who can control the tempo of the game from the middle of the park, while also being adept defensively and posing a threat on goal from long range, particularly while also having Premier League experience and pedigree.
However, United would still need to convince Neves of their credentials in order to lure him away from Al-Hilal, where he has been a key player in helping the club win the Saudi Pro League title in 2024 and compete in the Asian Champions League.
Much could also depend on the futures of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo, both of whom have been strongly linked with exits from Old Trafford in the coming months.
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