A man in demand
Not for the first time since he arrived in England, Ruben Neves is being linked with a move away from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Having played a key role in the Midlands club’s promotion back to the Premier League last season, the Portugal international signed an improved contract at Molineux in the summer after being linked with a move to Liverpool.
This, however, has not been enough to kill off speculation about his future.
A report by Goal claims Manchester City are monitoring Neves’ performances in the Premier League having considered a late move for the 21-year-old prior to the close of the summer transfer window.
Pep Guardiola is clearly keen to add another midfielder to his squad having missed out on Fred and Jorginho to Manchester United and Chelsea respectively.
City’s sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, met with Neves’ agent, Jorge Mendes, at Wolves’ season opener against Everton two weeks ago. He was also in attendance for the draw between the two clubs at Molineux on Saturday.
Although the English champions are interested in the player, the report also adds that they are wary that Manchester United may choose to hijack their move.
Officials from City are said to be under the impression that Jose Mourinho knows of their interest in Neves and is annoyed that Mendes, who is also his agent, is open to working on a deal to take the player to The Etihad.
Mourinho, whose position at United could be under scrutiny if they lose to Burnley at the weekend, is also said to have made it known to Mendes that they would be interested in the midfielder if he became available
