A large part of the talk surrounding Arsenal in the summer transfer window will involve Declan Rice. As The Top Flight understands, Rice is at the top of the Gunners’ wish list for the summer.
However, this doesn’t mean they’re putting all their eggs in one basket. Indeed, there are other options for the Gunners, some that cost significantly less – perhaps even half the price.
According to CaughtOffside, Ruben Neves will be available for clubs to buy in the summer. It’s thought his value has slashed from £75m to £50m thanks to his contract coming to an end. The journalist, Ben Jacobs, has stated that Neves will gain some attention over the coming months, due to being an alternative to Declan Rice and “half his price”.
Arsenal were interested in Ruben Neves in the January transfer window, however, a move never materialised for the Portugal international. Ageing at 26 years old now, many would argue there’s never been a better time for Mikel Arteta to sign him.
Much like Rice, Neves is proven in the Premier League. He has until next summer to sign a new deal at Wolves, which doesn’t look likely. He wants to take the next step in his career and as he approaches his prime, he would jump at the chance of playing in the Champions League next season.
Arsenal signed Jorginho in January instead. However, he’s very much a short-term option, as great as he’s been since signing. Ideally, the Gunners would like someone like Declan Rice or Moises Caicedo, however, if financial barriers prove to be a problem, then Neves is certainly in the same calibre as those two midfielders.
Consistency is a key factor in Neves’ game, as he’s more often than not the best player on the pitch for Wolves.
Do you think Arsenal would entertain a move for Ruben Neves?