Wolves are preparing for reported Liverpool target Ruben Neves to leave the club this summer.
Neves has often been linked with a move to Anfield over recent years. In the months leading up the end of his contract this summer, those links have started to become more frequent.
And now as per The Athletic, Wolves ‘expect’ their captain to depart at the end of the season. However, it’s also claimed that nothing can be ruled out at this stage, including a contract extension for the 25-year-old.
One thing that it seems is off the table though, is that Neves will leave Molineux on a free in 2024. That scenario would reportedly go ‘completely against’ the Wolves owner’s model for the club.
So, with Neves seemingly unlikely to sign a new contract, a sale this summer remains the the likeliest situation.
Should they sanction his departure though, it’s claimed that it will only be on Wolves’ terms. In effect, Neves won’t leave unless their valuation is met. There’s no indication as to what that is, but there reportedly ‘won’t be many clubs’ in that particular market.
Neves on his way out of Wolves
It’s strange to hear that Wolves remain bullish over Neves’ future. With his contract situation in mind, it’s hard to see how they have any leverage in demanding a price.
Of course the Portugal international won’t come cheap. He’s a quality player, one labelled ‘sensational’ by Gary Neville. The midfielder would be a top signing for anyone in the Premier League.
But it also remains true that it’s his club’s last chance to get a relatively decent fee for him. As their captain and best player, it would hurt to lose Neves on a free. As The Athletic mention, this isn’t something that’s being entertained. As a result, his price is falling every week.
So, they’ll have to compromise somewhere. Although there may not be too many clubs willing to spend big on Neves, Liverpool might be. Within reason.
At twenty-five he’s a good age to make the next step in his career. The Reds have reportedly been fans of his for ages and now that they need a midfielder, the timing would appear to line up.
Moreover, it’s been claimed that Neves will only look for a move within the Premier League. Realistically, that still leaves a few options, but none that need a midfielder more than Liverpool. The Portuguese isn’t at the top of Liverpool’s list this summer, but he’s worth keeping an eye on nonetheless.