Arjun Menon
Manchester United have reportedly taken concrete steps in their search for midfield reinforcements, with fresh reports claiming INEOS have held talks over a potential move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves.
The Portugal international is also attracting interest from Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, but United are understood to be exploring whether a deal could be completed as early as January.
United Planning Midfield Overhaul Under INEOS
It is no secret that Manchester United are planning a significant rebuild in midfield as part of INEOS’ long-term strategy. While Ruben Amorim focused heavily on attacking reinforcements during the summer — landing Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, along with goalkeeper Senne Lammens — attention has now turned firmly to the centre of the pitch.
A specialist No.6 is viewed as a priority, particularly after United were priced out of a move for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba during the previous window.
Baleba Still Top Target, But January Move Unlikely
Other Premier League midfielders such as Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) and Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) have been discussed internally as alternatives. However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has made it clear that Baleba remains United’s preferred long-term option.
Romano said:
“If there’s a player Manchester United put top, top, top of their list, for sure it’s Carlos Baleba. They absolutely love him.
“Anderson and Wharton are on the list, but Baleba has always been seen as the top target for Ruben Amorim.”
That said, the cost of landing any of those players would likely push negotiations into the summer, rather than January.
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Ruben Neves Emerges as Short-Term January Option
With elite Premier League targets likely unavailable mid-season, United are now considering more attainable alternatives — and Ruben Neves has emerged as a realistic short-term solution.
The 27-year-old was one of the Premier League’s most consistent midfield performers during his time at Wolves, renowned for his positional discipline, leadership, and long-range passing. He has spent the past two seasons in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal, where reports suggest the club would now be open to a sale.
Sources indicate that Neves’ profile — experience, tactical intelligence, and immediate reliability — appeals to INEOS as a stabilising presence while United pursue younger, high-upside targets in future windows.
Competition From Newcastle and Spurs
United are not alone in monitoring Neves’ situation. Newcastle United and Tottenham are also understood to be keeping close tabs, with both clubs assessing midfield options ahead of the second half of the season.
However, Manchester United’s early discussions and willingness to act quickly could give them an edge should Al-Hilal formally open the door to negotiations.
What Happens Next?
While Baleba remains the long-term dream signing, Ruben Neves is shaping up as a pragmatic January alternative — one that could help United stabilise midfield control without committing to a major financial outlay.
If talks progress, Neves could become one of the first notable INEOS-era signings designed to balance short-term needs with a longer-term rebuild.