Many Wolves fans miss Ruben Neves, and some new claims about the midfielder will potentially come as a surprise to some.
Ruben Neves left Molineux in the summer of 2023, following a six-year spell at the club.
Neves’ actual exit in itself didn’t come as too much of a shock, given there had been lots of speculation about his future leading into the summer.
But there was just surprise about the club he joined.
Neves completed a move to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal for around £47 million, which was a fee that really helped Wolves at a time of financial concern.
Neves was criticised by a number of pundits and fans for making the move to the Middle East, but insisted he was doing right by his family.
Most Wolves fans were perfectly fine with Neves making the move, as it meant there would be no chance of him coming up against Wanderers in a competitive setting.
After his move to Al-Hilal, there has always been talk of Neves returning to Europe – and so, new reports about him today will come as a surprise to some.
Ruben Neves set to extend contract with Al-Hilal
Many Wolves fans have longed for the return of Neves.
Neves himself has left the door open for a return to Wolves some day, with the midfielder a legend of the club.
But there have been no suggestions that Neves would return to Wolves after his stint in Saudi, and no reports of interest from the club.
So any return is likely to be far into the future and only if the situation is right for both player or club.
But for now, it looks like Neves could actually prolong his time in Saudi Arabia.
According to Record, Neves is now close to agreeing a contract extension with Al-Hilal for a further two years.
His current deal expires in 2026, but Neves’ proposed new contract would tie him down to the club until 2028.
Certainly, this would be a surprise given many expected Neves to only make a fleeting visit to Saudi and leave after a couple of years.
Neves’ move to Saudi has worked out well for him
Word of Neves’ impending extension at Al-Hilal will likely disappoint a number of European clubs.
Several have kept an eye on Neves while he’s been out in Saudi, and he would not have been short of offers next summer.
Indeed, it was recently claimed that Manchester United were among the teams keen to sign Neves.
| Ruben Neves for Al-Hilal (2023-present) |
| Appearances – 98 |
| Goals – 11 |
| Assists – 24 |
But it looks like the former Wolves captain is still happy playing for Al-Hilal and is ready to stay put. He will soon surpass 100 appearances for the club, and has already won four trophies including one league title.
Some wondered how Neves’ international prospects would be affected by playing in Saudi, but seemingly he is still very much rated by Portugal manager Roberto Martinez.
Neves has continued to make squads since he left Wolves and went to Al-Hilal, and looks a fairly safe bet to go to the 2026 World Cup, which is perhaps why he’s ready to stay put.