Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that Ruben Neves could be ready for a new challenge away from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer.
Neves has been a mainstay in the Wolves side this season, featuring 28 times in the Premier League whilst chipping in with four goals and two assists prior to the weekend, making 207 appearances for Wolves in all competitions over the past five seasons.
The Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a move away from Molineux in the summer, with Arsenal and Manchester United showing interest.
With other clubs interested in the Portuguese midfielder, Jones highlighted to GiveMeSport that it may be time for Neves to move on from Wolves for a new challenge.
He said: “He loves Wolves, he’s loved being there. But, I do think he’s ready for the next challenge, from what I’m hearing.”
Will Ruben Neves be at Wolves by the end of the summer window?
No
Yes
TIF Thoughts on Dean Jones’ comments…
Neves has a current market value of £36 million (according to Transfermarkt) and he has been excellent for Wolves this season. He has an average of 73.5 touches per game, has an average passing accuracy of 84% and makes an average of 2.3 tackles per game, as per SofaScore.
The 25-year-old has been a loyal servant for Wolves over the past five seasons, but due to his form in the Premier League, he should be a player competing in European competitions, and if Wolves do not qualify for Europe ahead of next term, it could be hard to see him staying at Molineux.
Neves is also part of a new generation of Portugal players that have outstanding talent, so if he isn’t playing in the top European competitions, this may hinder his chances of game time at international level, which could be in the back of his mind ahead of the upcoming World Cup.