Newcastle United could change their stance on Ruben Neves.
That is according to 90min, which has reported what Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is now planning to do regarding Neves.
So, what is being reported about Newcastle United and Ruben Neves? Let’s take a look.
What’s the story?
Well, according to 90min, Newcastle United are determined to sign former Wolverhampton Wanderers defensive midfielder Ruben Neves from Al Hilal in the January transfer window.
Newcastle were initially looking to do a loan deal for Neves, but the Premier League is set to put a temporary ban on teams signing players from associated clubs doing such business.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) owns Newcastle and Al Hilal.
However, according to 90min, Newcastle are not going to give up on bringing Neves to St. James’ Park.
The report has claimed that “Newcastle and PIF are open to a possible permanent transfer” of Neves.
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There is interest in Neves from Arsenal as well. Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with the Portugal international.
Potential Ruben Neves transfer to Newcastle United won’t be smooth
In my opinion, Newcastle United could struggle to sign Ruben Neves from Al Hilal in the January transfer window even on a permanent deal.
I believe that this is a tough deal for Newcastle to pull through. And I am now going to outline the reasons why.
First of all, Newcastle will have to pay at least £47 million in transfer fees for Neves. That is the money that Al Hilal paid for the Portugal international midfielder in the summer of 2023 (Sky Sports).
If Newcastle were to get Neves for anything less, then questions are going to be asked.
Now, there is speculation Newcastle cannot spend that kind of money due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) concerns.
The Magpies are reportedly backing out of a potential deal for Teun Koopmeiners because of FFP issues. The Netherlands international midfielder would cost £48 million.
Secondly, Neves earns a huge salary in Saudi Arabia. According to Salary Sport, it is £410,000 per week. The Mirror estimates it is over £300,000 per week untaxed.
You have to ask if Newcastle would really be willing to or indeed be able to afford to pay that kind of wage.
Let us also bear in mind that a permanent deal would mean a commitment to Neves and paying that salary for the next three or four years.