According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona head coach Xavi is not particularly keen on signing Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves, a player Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool are interested in.
The Spanish publication has claimed that Barcelona boss Xavi prefers the signing of 23-year-old Spain international midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad to the recruitment of 25-year-old Wolves and Portugal international midfielder Neves, described as “a top, top player” and “sensational” by former Manchester United star Gary Neville on Sky Sports Premier League (7:29pm, March 18, 2022).
The report has added that although there are some in the Barcelona boardroom who would like to bring Neves to Camp Nou, Xavi personally prefers Zubimendi.
Xavi stance on Ruben Neves boost for Arsenal and Liverpool
And this will come as a boost for Arsenal and Liverpool in their quest to sign Neves, who earns £58,000 per week (SalarySport) at Wolves.
According to Sport, Arsenal are keen on signing the Portugal international midfielder in the summer of 2023 and are ready to compete with Barcelona for his signature.
The Mirror have claimed that Liverpool are interested in Neves and want to sign him in January.
Newcastle United have also been linked with the 25-year-old.
Now, we do not think that Wolves will sell Neves in the middle of the season.
After all, the Wanderers need all of their best players available to stay in the Premier League.
But things could change next summer.
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