Although Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal were reportedly interested in Neves back then, he chose to join Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League for €55m (£48.1m). Neves has been performing well for Al-Hilal, scoring two goals and providing an assist in 17 matches this season alongside notable signings like Neymar, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, and Aleksandar Mitrovic.
While Neves's contract with Al-Hilal runs until 2026, rumors of a possible return to the Premier League, particularly with Arsenal, are circulating. Newcastle United also considered a January loan move, but there might be obstacles due to Premier League rules on player loans to clubs with the same ownership.
Football Insider suggests that Manchester City has entered the race to sign Neves, as Pep Guardiola is reportedly looking for a replacement for Kalvin Phillips. Phillips, who joined City from Leeds United, has struggled to secure a regular starting role. With Euro 2024 approaching, both Phillips and Man City are expected to work towards his exit in the January transfer window, potentially opening the door for Neves to make a Premier League comeback.
Guardiola is reportedly a big fan of Neves, who is said to be open to leaving Al-Hilal either in January or the upcoming summer transfer window. Neves initially joined Al-Hilal with the expectation of a quick return to top-level European competition. However, Al-Hilal is unlikely to let him go easily due to his existing contract.
If Neves joins Manchester City, he would reunite with former Wolves teammate Matheus Nunes, who arrived at the Etihad for €62m (£54.2m) this summer. Despite recent additions like Mateo Kovacic and contract extensions for players like Bernardo Silva, City has faced concerns with Rodri's fitness, who missed Spain's recent Euro 2024 qualifying match and is uncertain for the upcoming game against Georgia.
