The midfield transfer merry-go-round is turning, with Manchester United preparing to hop on the ride.
With Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic set to leave, and questions over the quality of the players remaining, it is a near certainty United will be signing a midfielder or two.
A few names have been mentioned. The Mirror link Ngolo Kante, The Guardian link Frenkie de Jong, and The MEN link Kalvin Phillips. But don’t discount Ruben Neves.
Neves waiting on offer from Manchester United
Spanish newspaper Sport report Neves’ agent Jorge Mendes is in negotiations with Barcelona, who want him as a successor for Sergio Busquets, rather than a replacement for De Jong.
However, the finances required to sign Neves, make it likely De Jong will be have to sacrificed to buy Neves, so the moves could go hand in hand.
But there is also a line in Sport‘s report, which makes it clear that Manchester United are the English side which Neves has his eye on.
The report states: “The Portuguese international has other offers within the Premier, but he is not willing to listen to them unless United end up taking the step, something that has not yet happened.”
While perhaps unlikely he would turn down City or Liverpool, Neves seemingly recognises that there is a potential spot in Manchester United’s midfield which may be opening up.
Mendes will be telling him this, due to his links to Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo, who he represents.
The Sun reported in April that Erik ten Hag planned to make Neves a top transfer target. It’s possible he is on United’s list, even if he is not the top choice.
Neves appeared to play his final home game for Wolves at the weekend, looking emotional as he waved goodbye to Molineux at full time.
One way or another, the midfielder’s situation is one to watch for Manchester United fans.
It is highly probable Mendes has conveyed his stance to the club, that Neves is waiting on an offer from Manchester United. Ten Hag and his team just have to decide whether he is wanted or not.
And if they can’t decide in time, prompting Neves to sign for Barcelona, it could impact United in another way, sending De Jong to United.
This would leave Barcelona with Gavi, Pedri, new free agent signing Franck Kessie, Neves, and possibly even Carlos Soler, who AS reported is lined up as a new signing – opening the door for Frenkie de Jong to leave and reunite with manager Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.