Man Utd Explore January Move for Ruben Neves as Al-Hilal Look to Cash In

Ruben Neves is emerging as a potential January option for Premier League clubs including Manchester United, with TEAMTalk reporting that Al-Hilal are now ready to sell the Portugal international after failing to reach an agreement over a new contract. Neves, 28, has become one of the Saudi Pro League’s most decorated imports since arriving in 2023, winning four trophies and cementing himself as a key figure in Riyadh. But with his contract expiring in June 2026 and talks over an extension stalling, Al-Hilal are believed to be willing to listen to offers in January, viewing it as their final chance to secure a meaningful fee.

The midfielder is understood to be open to a return to Europe, and his representatives have been sounding out interest in anticipation of a winter move.

Premier League clubs alerted as Neves considers return to Europe

According to TEAMtalk, several Premier League sides have been approached as intermediaries gauge the level of interest in a permanent January move. United, Tottenham and Newcastle are among the clubs made aware of Neves’ availability, while European sides in Italy, Germany, Spain and Portugal are also monitoring developments.

Neves, who reportedly earns £340,000-a-week, has reportedly told his agents he would consider a mid-season move, with Al-Hilal preferring a permanent transfer rather than a loan. That stance has shaped early discussions, with January viewed internally as the final realistic chance for the Saudi club to cash in.

TEAMtalk also note that West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo would “love” to reunite with Neves, having worked with him at Porto and Wolves. However, with the Hammers currently battling near the bottom of the table, convincing the midfielder to join a relegation fight is considered unlikely.

Manchester United have also been contacted as part of the exploratory process, with the club long-time admirers of the former Wolves midfielder. While no formal move has been made, Neves’ sudden availability places him back on United’s radar at a time when midfield planning remains fluid.

The situation arrives amid uncertainty surrounding Bruno Fernandes’ future, with TEAMtalk referencing recent comments from the United captain that hinted senior figures may be open to a sale. While the two situations are not directly linked, Neves’ profile – experienced, technically secure and Premier League-proven – adds an extra layer to United’s January thinking.

What comes next for United as multiple targets assessed

Neves is not the only name being assessed by United ahead of 2026, with the club also tracking younger profiles across multiple positions. Winger targets such as Said El Mala and Antoine Semenyo remain under consideration, while midfield remains a priority area under Ruben Amorim.

Whether United act in January or wait until the summer remains unclear, but the fact Neves’ camp have made contact ensures his name is now firmly in the conversation. As the window approaches, United’s next steps – and how aggressively they move – will shape whether this link develops into something concrete.