Man Utd suffer Ruben Neves blow as Al-Hilal star ‘to sign’ new contract | OneFootball

Manchester United have been dealt a setback, with long-term target Ruben Neves close to agreeing a new Al-Hilal contract. It dents Michael Carrick’s hopes of a January addition.

Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, says the midfielder is in advanced talks over a lucrative three-year extension with the Saudi Pro League champions. He is keen to stay, with only minor details still to be finalised.

The report also said United held discussions with Neves’ camp and agent Mendes at the end of December to gauge a move, but no bid or formal proposal was made.

A return to the Premier League had been floated this month, with Old Trafford often cited as a likely landing spot. This development all but ends prospects of a deadline-day switch.

It appears the INEOS-led strategy and Carrick’s caution over a costly mid-season outlay have shaped United’s stance. Recruitment may now look elsewhere or wait until the summer.

Source: Goal.com