Newcastle United has emerged in the transfer gossip mill, with reports linking them to a potential January loan move for former Premier League midfielder Ruben Neves, formerly of Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, Neves has categorically dismissed the speculation, asserting that he has no intention of leaving his current team in the Middle East.
The recent interest in Neves by Newcastle is framed against the backdrop of a Premier League meeting in London where clubs debated the imposition of a temporary ban on loan signings between clubs sharing the same owners. Although twelve teams voted in favor of the ban, falling short of the required 14, the motion failed by two votes. This decision paved the way for Newcastle, 80% owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, to explore potential moves in the January transfer window.
Newcastle is reportedly in search of a midfielder to fill the void left by Sandro Tonali, who is suspended from football until August 2024 due to an investigation into illegal betting activity. Ruben Neves, who departed Wolverhampton Wanderers in a £47 million deal just six months ago, has been linked with the Magpies.
However, sources within Newcastle have downplayed the likelihood of a move for Neves, and the player himself has refuted the rumors, emphasizing his contentment with his current situation in the Middle East.
When questioned about the Newcastle links, Neves responded, “I don’t go,” attributing the speculation to his previous tenure in England and the Saudi ownership connection. He expressed satisfaction with his current club, Al Hilal, highlighting the appeal of the project presented to him. Neves acknowledged the financial aspect but emphasized the significant progress and potential of football in the region, foreseeing an impressive football league in the coming years.
Meanwhile, NewcastleWorld has reported the club’s strong interest in Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips as a potential midfield reinforcement. However, stiff competition is expected from Italian giants Juventus for Phillips’ signature.
As it stands, Phillips has received approval to leave Manchester City, having started only one game this season, notably against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup third round. The transfer saga surrounding Newcastle’s midfield options adds intrigue to their January plans, with various players being considered to bolster the squad.
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