Man Utd, Liverpool & Newcastle ‘in head-to-head battle for Ruben Neves transfer as Barcelona fall out of Wolves ace race’

MANCHESTER UNITED, Liverpool and Newcastle are reportedly “in a direct battle” to sign Ruben Neves this summer.

The 25-year-old Portugal midfielder from Wolverhampton Wanderers has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in recent months.

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However, a new report has now claimed that the La Liga giants have pulled out of the transfer race.

And now the Premier League trio of United, Liverpool and Newcastle are in contention for his signature.

Spanish publication Sport report that Neves’ agent Jorge Mendes met with Barcelona officials last week.

But he was reportedly informed during the talks that Xavi’s side prioritize strengthening in other positions.

They also want to secure the future of contractless veteran Sergio Busquets.

And even if they don’t, the publication claims that Xavi “prefers the profile of a different type of midfielder” and not Neves.

The ace joined Molineux from Porto in 2017 and has helped the club solidify in the Premier League after winning the league in his debut season there.

He now has less than 18 months of contract and rather than risk losing him for nothing in 2024, Wolves are expected to sell this summer.

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United boss Erik ten Hag has long been said to be an admirer of the player, as has Kop manager Jurgen Klopp.

But high-flying Newcastle are the latest team to join the scramble to sign Neves.