FC Barcelona have emerged as a rival side for Arsenal in the hunt for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves, who is now a target for both clubs.
According to Sky Sports News, the La Liga giants are showing ‘considerable interest’ in the Portuguese international, who looks set to leave Wolves this summer with Neves’ contract expiring in 2024.
As per the report, Wolves are expecting offers for their star maestro this summer, with the Premier League side valuing Neves between £50m and £60m as both Arsenal and Barcelona look to sign a top central midfielder in the transfer window.
The Gunners were keen on Neves last summer, though a transfer never materialised as the north London side instead only signed Albert Sambi Lokonga as a long-term project for the central midfield position, though this stance is set to change.
Multiple reports indicate that Mikel Arteta is set on signing a midfielder who could partner Thomas Partey for next season, with Granit Xhaka’s future once again up in the air with AS Roma reigniting their interest in the Swiss international.
Yet one player who could now be beyond Arsenal’s reach is Neves, with Barcelona now very interested in the Wolves star, the Gunners could struggle to lure the 25-year-old to north London given the stature of their competition.
Arsenal should not beat themselves up if Barcelona win Neves race
A midfielder is arguably more important for Arsenal this summer than a striker, yet in the case for Neves, Arteta should not beat himself up if Barcelona ultimately win the race for the former FC Porto star.
Indeed, whilst Neves would be a younger improvement on Xhaka, the Wolves midfielder doesn’t offer too much different than what the Arsenal star already does, and with other options available, a different direction could be the way forward for the Gunners.
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