Manchester United and Newcastle could still be in the running for one of their main transfer targets, with a race to sign Ruben Neves expected to spark into life following Champions League qualification.
Barcelona have been heavily linked to the Wolves midfielder in recent weeks, with a swap deal potentially involving Ansu Fati being widely reported. However, they will now have to compete with the financial might of the Premier League, with both United and Newcastle expected to pursue a deal to sign the Portuguese international.
This comes amid both clubs' expected qualification for the Champions League next season, with the two sides needing just a point from their remaining two league matches to qualify. This means that they can now offer assurances to any potential summer target, with their place at the top table of European football almost certain to be confirmed for next season.
This Champions League qualification has been named as a factor in the future of Neves, with the Wolves captain speaking about his summer transfer plans after his side's draw with Everton on Saturday, a match which is likely to be Neves' last in a Wolves shirt.
He said: “Let’s see. Let’s see what happens. Of course, I always say the same thing, I truly love to be here but I never hide that I want to play Champions League football. That is a hard decision to make because I feel at home here.
“In football you need to hurry, you need to go for your main goals and I think that would be a massive decision for me and my family. Nothing has happened yet. It is was my last game here, I really enjoyed it and I’m thankful for every single person who has worked with me for six seasons.”
His comments are likely to spark a transfer battle for his signature, with a potential cut-price deal due to his contract in the Black Country expiring next summer. These comments could also put Arsenal on alert, with the Gunners expected to strengthen their midfield this summer, albeit with Declan Rice expected to be the main target.
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Having spent the past six seasons playing in England, Neves may also be tempted with a new challenge abroad and Barcelona could also put together an appealing package despite their financial constraints. However, they would potentially have to depend on Fati's willingness to leave the club with his contract running through until 2027 at the Catalan giants.
Wolves fans and players will be hopeful of Neves remaining in the Midlands, with his future also being discussed by teammate Hawng Hee Chan.
“We don’t know if he will leave or he will stay, but I hope he stays,” Hwang said. “It’s not just me – every player wants Ruben to stay here.
“He’s such an amazing player – as captain, as player and as a person," he continued. “He’s done so many things well for us, that I just want to play with him.
“I just think he’s the best player for us and for these fans.”
