Manchester United’s attempts at signing a midfielder during the summer window did not work out as INEOS had other plans.
The co-owners prioritised improving the team’s attack, with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko all joining the Red Devils.
As a result of the extensive outlay on the aforementioned trio, a move for Carlos Baleba of Brighton and Hove Albion was not possible due to the Seagulls’ valuation, despite Ruben Amorim demanding his signing.
The co-owners did try and sign an alternative towards the closing stages of the window, but Atletico Madrid did not allow Conor Gallagher to leave on loan, while VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller turned down a move to Old Trafford.
Midfielder hunt
United even enquired with Chelsea over Romeo Lavia, but Enzo Maresca refused to sanction the Belgian’s exit. So the 20-time English league champions were forced to shelve their midfield plans until January.
The Peoples Person has already relayed that United will definitely be signing a midfielder in the winter, but whether it will be Baleba, or Lavia is still not clear.
And as per Teamtalk, there is another surprising name on the list — Ruben Neves of Al-Hilal. He is Premier League proven from his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
And the best part? His contract with the Saudi Pro League side expires in the summer of 2026, so he will be available for a cut-price fee in the summer.
Surprise name
“Manchester United, under the stewardship of Ruben Amorim, are laser-focused on reinforcing their midfield this January.
“Sources close to the club reveal that Amorim is seeking dynamic, creative players to elevate United’s engine room, and the Red Devils have already begun laying the groundwork for some high-profile moves in the transfer window.
“Adding intrigue to the mix is Rúben Neves, the 28-year-old Portuguese star whose contract with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia is nearing its end.
“Sources confirm Neves is eager to return to European football, and his prior inclusion on United’s shortlist makes him a compelling target.”
PL proven with great skills
He has nine goals and 24 assists in two seasons for Al-Hilal, while in his last season for Wolves, the 28-year-old managed six goals and one assist.
Bruno Fernandes will know all about his national teammate’s skillset, with Ruben Neves possessing an excellent passing range with laser-guided deliveries from set-pieces while also being an expert free-kick taker.
He is not too shabby with his work-rate as well, and could prove to be a major bargain in the market. His signing is definitely worth exploring.
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
