In the coming transfer season, Ruben Neves is expected to be in high demand. After the final game of the 2021/22 Premier League season, the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder hinted that he could be on the move this summer....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Barcelona, as well as Premier League rivals Manchester United, have expressed considerable interest in signing the 25-year-old. The Catalans regard the Portuguese international as the best long-term alternative for Sergio Busquets, the club captain.
The Telegraph believes that Wolves have slapped a price tag of £70 million (€82 million) on their prized asset, making signing him a difficult challenge for Barcelona.
Neves joined the Midlands outfit in 2017 from FC Porto, when they were still in the English second level. He has developed into one of the Premier League’s most dependable defensive midfielders, as well as a permanent fixture for Portugal.
Barcelona has been tracking the 25-year-old midfielder for some time. With Sergio Busquets nearing the twilight of his career and his contract set to expire next year, the Blaugrana must devise a succession plan for the club veteran.
As a result, Neves has been selected as one of the primary targets. However, he has two years left on his Wolves deal, giving the Premier League club an advantage in negotiations. And with a €82 million asking price for the midfielder, things could get much more complicated for Barça.
It is no secret that the Catalans are experiencing financial difficulties and are unable to make large investments in the market. So far, it’s unclear whether the Blaugrana will be able to pay Wolves’ asking price.
Alternatively, as part of the deal for Neves, Barcelona might offer some players, with the Premier League notably keen in La Masia graduate Nico Gonzalez.
If not Neves, Barça have identified Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as a possible replacement, though he will not be cheap, with a €60 million release clause on his contract.
