Ruben Neves’ agent Jorge Mendes has reportedly reached a salary agreement with Barcelona.
That is the claim from SPORT today, with the Wolves midfielder apparently now ‘the chosen one’ for the Spanish heavyweights.
Yesterday it was reported that Barca were looking to potentially loan Neves in January, and pay for him in the summer by way of a mandatory clause.
It is unclear at this stage whether they will make such an attempt.
What is claimed now though, is that there is a salary agreement with Neves’ agent Mendes ‘and transfer with his club’.
Later in the article, it is mentioned how they will possibly need to sell Frenkie de Jong, as they don’t want to lose any other their younger players with high potential.
Neves had been expected to depart Wolves in the last transfer window.
He had cut an emotional figure at the end of the last two games of the 2021/22 season, as if to suggest his exit was on the cards.
But ultimately, no offers came in for Neves, with Wolves having reportedly set a £70 million asking price.
Neves stayed put at Molineux, and then assumed the captain’s armband after the departure of Conor Coady.
Few fans are expecting him to be at the club much longer given the currently struggles of the team.
Neves has conducted himself really well considering he didn’t get a move, and has arguably been Wolves’ best player since the start of the season.
Ruben Neves must be itching to leave Wolves deep down
Neves loves Wolves, there is absolutely no doubt about that.
But the 25-year-old must be really keen at this point to embark on a new chapter.
It must be frustrating for him, as someone who gives his all week in, week out, to see others not doing the same.
He will continue to operate with class both on and off the field, such is his excellent character.
But he can be forgiven for having one eye on his next move, which seems for all the world like it will be Barcelona. And few Wolves fans could really begrudge him that.
When he goes, hopefully Wolves are at least able to secure a decent fee.