Wolves journalist Liam Keen has given his thoughts on Ruben Neves and his future at Wolves.
The Portuguese playmaker has been an integral part of the Wolves squad since his arrival in 2017. He has made a total of 197 appearances and counting – during which time, he has scored 21 goals and chipped in with 11 assists.
However, reports in the past few months have put into doubt his long-term future at Molineux. Reports from Spain claimed that Chelsea were looking to sign him, whilst both Manchester clubs were also reportedly showing an interest in him last summer.
Another recent claim also suggested that Manchester United were looking into the possibility of bringing him in this January.
Speaking on the latest edition of the E&S Wolves podcast, following a question from a listener, Keen discussed the situation surrounding Neves’ contract and when it was likely to be renewed.
Keen seemed to believe that it would be some time before a deal for the midfielder became a priority in and around Molineux.
He said: “Well, it wouldn’t surprise me if that was on the agenda. From what I’m hearing at the moment, I’ve not heard anything on that. As I say, I think he’s [signed up] until 2024, so you’ve still got a little bit more time.”
TIF Thoughts on Liam Keen’s comments on Ruben Neves and Wolves…
Is Ruben Neves Wolves' most important player?
Yes
No
Keen’s assessment of things certainly does come across as slightly risky if this is how Wolves intend to play the situation.
Whilst there is still some time to run on his contract, with does indeed run until 2024, the fact that there are so many teams supposedly taking an interest in Neves should really be something that pushes Wolves into action.
It’s even more important when you consider that Wolves’ place in European football is not guaranteed right now, while the teams being linked to him are arguably in a far better position than Bruno Lage’s men to finish in the top seven.
So they should be doing everything they can to tie him down as soon as possible for as long as possible. That way, they can either lock him in for a longer stint at Molineux or try and increase his value should the other teams come in for him again in the summer, if they can offer the European football that Wolves can’t.
In other news: ‘As it stands now’ – Reporter drops interesting claim on Bruno Jordao’s future at Wolves