Jose Enrique has described Arsenal transfer target Ruben Neves’ rumoured move from Wolves to Saudi Arabia as ‘crazy’.
Some thought, the 26-years-old, with 12 months left to run on his contract and interest from the likes of Mikel Arteta, would make the switch to another Premier League club or across Europe.
But instead, Ruben Neves is going to join Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal for £47 million (Sky Sports) and former Premier League left-back Enrique was left shocked, as he posted on his Instagram story: ‘Crazy, with one year left (on his contract and for) 50M Euros’.
The Saudi Pro League already has bigger names than Neves at their disposal, Cristiano Ronaldo, for example, or current Ballon d’Or holder, Karim Benzema.
But the reason why many are left surprised by Neves’ call is because of his age and how he is heading towards hitting the peak of his powers.
It’s obvious why these players are making this move to Saudi Arabia, and in truth, if every other person was offered a lot more money to take another job, then they would do it, but to secure the talents of someone who isn’t towards the end of his career, is some statement from Saudi.
Arsenal’s interest in Neves
A highly technical footballer, with an outstanding passing range and an incredible shot from distance, Neves was on Arsenal’s transfer radar this summer, with David Seaman previously backing his former club to sign the ‘quality’ midfielder.
With rumours that Granit Xhaka is going to leave, if the Gunners decided to push for the Wolves man, then he would have done wonders in that left-sided number eight role.
Instead, he will now express his talents in a league that’s money-crazy, making statements, and has star-studded names, but clearly doesn’t have the reputation or quality of European teams.
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