Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves wants to join Real Madrid

Portugal international Ruben Neves is interested in joining Real Madrid in the January transfer window. 

Neves has been playing for Al-Hilal since joining the club in 2023 for a £47 million fee. 

He has made 112 appearances across all competitions for his team, scoring 17 goals and creating 28 assists in the process. 

Neves has made 12 direct goal contributions this season, as Al-Hilal sit seven points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League table. 

But his contract will expire in June, and he doesn’t look to be keen on renewing his deal. 

The Portuguese wants to join Real Madrid, but the club’s board has doubts whether they should make a move this month, per Diario AS. 

Some coaches at Madrid believe they need to sign a creative midfielder, but the board is not convinced they should spend a fee for Neves in January when he will be available to sign for nothing in the summer. 

Manchester United have also been linked with a move for the 28-year-old. 

The Red Devils are looking to bring in a new midfielder, with both Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte facing uncertain futures at Old Trafford. 

Uncertainty at the club

Real recently sacked Xabi Alonso as head coach following the Supercopa final loss to Barcelona. 

They have put Álvaro Arbeloa in temporary charge whilst they search for a permanent replacement. 

Los Blancos are reportedly considering Jurgen Klopp and Enzo Maresca for the permanent role. 

But Klopp is currently committed to Red Bull as their Global Sports Director, and he may not be willing to return to management. 

Maresca is available after mutually agreeing to part ways with Chelsea at the start of this year. 

The Italian’s departure came after a complete breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy. 

Stats from Transfermarkt