Barcelona are planning a number of signings to strengthen their squad under manager Xavi. The Catalans endured one of the worst seasons in recent times after losing the talismanic Lionel Messi last summer. Barcelona failed to lift a trophy this season, a rare bad patch on the club’s timeline. As a result, president Joan Laporta has assured that signings will be made this summer to make the team more competitive. And Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves is now on their radars for a transfer ahead of next season. Xavi reportedly admires Neves highly and wants him to join his project.
Furthermore, Sport have revealed that Barcelona have opened direct contacts with the Wolves midfielder. Though their financial situation is almost in crumbles, Barcelona are not giving up on making signings. The Catalans have already secured two deals, snapping up free agents Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie. However, the duo have not been yet registered by the club due to their poor financial conditions. But per multiple reports, Xavi wants more reinforcements particularly in the midfield with an eye on Neves. But given their financial troubles, Barca could go for a swap deal for the Portuguese.
Xavi holds initial talks with Ruben Neves
According to Sport, Xavi has reportedly held talks with Ruben Neves to join Barcelona. The manager has given the midfielder insight into his plans. Though the talks have been informal, Sport believes that it could play a significant role in Neves’ decision. Furthermore, Barcelona are aware that a lot of clubs are keeping tabs on the Wolves player. The club, therefore, wants to leapfrog in the negotiations to land the 25-year-old.
Neves’ current contract with the Premier League side expires in the summer of 2024. No talks have extension have been heard as the midfielder himself wants a new challenge. As a result, this has put many clubs on alert with Manchester United and Arsenal showing interest in Neves. However, the midfielder has set his heart on a move to Barcelona per many reports. Moreover, his agent Jorge Mendes is working as well to facilitate his client’s move to Spain.
But given Barcelona’s financial situation, the club is more likely to include fringe players in a cash plus player deal for Neves. Oscar Mingueza, Nico Gonzalez, and Riqui Puig are all on the list of wantaways and could be included in the offer. Xavi wants to replace Sergio Busquets who is approaching the twilight of his career with Neves. The Portuguese on the other hand is a star on the rise. Neves has consistently delivered for Wolves and been a crucial part of their midfield.
Neves has played 33 league games for Wolves this season and racks up 2.1 tackles, 2dribbles, 1.2 interceptions, and a whopping 6 long-balls per game. Furthermore, the midfielder has 4 goals and 3 assists to show for those 33 appearances. No wonder why Xavi desperately wants Neves on his side. However, Wolves want around £50 million for their asset which could prove to be too much for the Catalans. As a result, the Catalans will have to make a number of sales to accommodate Neves’ signing.
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