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Manchester United have reportedly made a formal offer of about €23 million for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves, with the deal said to depend on the player’s wages and his final decision. The report says Al-Hilal are seriously considering accepting, with Neves nearing the end of his contract. Separately, Fabrizio Romano says Kobbie Mainoo is now expected to stay and play an important role under interim boss Michael Carrick.
Man Utd ‘formal offer’ for Neves as Romano says Mainoo set to stay
Spanish outlet Fichajes reported that United have lodged a formal bid worth around 23 million euros for Neves as they look to strengthen their midfield. The 28-year-old has spent the last couple of years in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal and, according to the report, is nearing the end of his contract while eyeing a return to the Premier League.
The report said Al-Hilal are “seriously considering accepting” United’s proposal, with the offer described as close to their demands. It added that the transfer hinges on two conditions: Neves’ salary and his final decision. The report also noted that Saudi Arabia acknowledges keeping Neves until June without a contract renewal would represent a clear financial risk.
The report comes amid conflicting claims about whether United will sign anyone during the current transfer window, with limited funds widely acknowledged. United raised money through exits to spend around £230 million on Benjamin Sesko, Senne Lammens, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha ahead of a season without European football, and the same approach could continue in this window and the summer.
Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, said Mainoo “looks set to stay at the club and play an important role” after making his first Premier League start of the season in the Manchester derby. Romano said Mainoo had not started any league games under Ruben Amorim, but delivered a “fantastic all-round performance” that showed Carrick’s trust, adding that a loan is now off the table despite earlier interest from several clubs, including Napoli.
