Wolves star ‘in talks’ amid Manchester United and Liverpool transfer speculation

Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves has reportedly made a decision on his future ahead of the summer transfer window. It is said the Portugal international is ready to quit Wolves regardless of whether they avoid relegation to the Championship or not, with Manchester United and Liverpool interested.

Neves has been a vital player for Wanderers ever since joining from Porto in 2017 and his departure would no doubt leave a huge void to fill. It makes sense for him to leave, however, as he is often the star man in a team struggling down in the bottom half of the Premier League standings.

Football Insider reports Neves has already decided he wants to take on a new challenge “at the highest level possible” as he enters the prime of his career. The publication claims Wolves have attempted to tie the midfielder down to a new contract at Molineux but “negotiations have not progressed” with his mind made up.

With Neves’ current deal set to expire in June 2024, the 2023 summer window might be the only opportunity left for Wolves to bring in a sizeable transfer fee. Both United and Liverpool have been linked to Jude Bellingham as a priority target but the latest report in The Athletic suggests Manchester City and Real Madrid are leading that particular race.

Although the physical attributes of Neves are not really comparable to Bellingham’s, the Wolves ace can compete somewhat when it comes to his technique and footballing intelligence. It would be hard to argue that Neves’ arrival would not be welcomed at either Old Trafford or Anfield, but whether or not he will be listed as a top target is unclear.

The 26-year-old is Wolves’ equal-top scorer in the Premier League this season with five goals and he is well known for his ability to score from outside of the penalty area. Neves has played 244 times for Wanderers, scoring 29 times and contributing 12 assists. His passion is clear, with 60 yellow cards and one red accumulated throughout that period.