United’s Transfer Strategy Faces Setbacks as Neves Opts for Al-Hilal

omidbasir- Manchester United’s quest for midfield reinforcements has encountered a significant hurdle, as Fabrizio Romano reports that Ruben Neves is likely to commit his future to Al-Hilal. The former Wolves captain had been widely linked with a return to the Premier League, with Old Trafford frequently mentioned as a probable destination.

However, aspirations of seeing the Portuguese midfielder in a United jersey have been dashed. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano disclosed that Neves is currently engaged in “advanced negotiations” to finalize a lucrative three-year contract extension with the Saudi Pro League champions. This development effectively eliminates any lingering hopes of a deadline-day transfer to Manchester, compelling the club’s recruitment team to explore alternative options or maintain their existing squad until the summer.

The disappointment for United supporters is further exacerbated by the revelation that the club had been in active discussions with Neves’ representatives just weeks ago. Romano indicated that United officials met with agent Jorge Mendes at the end of December to assess the viability of a transfer. However, despite the initial interest, the Red Devils “never made any bid or formal proposal,” providing Al-Hilal with the opportunity to persuade their star player to remain.

It appears that while Neves was a consideration, the club’s revamped transfer strategy under the INEOS ownership and manager Michael Carrick favored a cautious approach instead of a costly January expenditure. This indecision has proven critical, with Neves appearing convinced by the project and financial incentives presented by the Middle Eastern club.

Romano further noted that Neves is “quite keen” to sign, with only minor details left to finalize between the involved parties.

In addition to the setbacks on the midfield front, United could face the departure of forward Joshua Zirkzee without securing a replacement. Reports from Italy suggest that Juventus is making a late bid to acquire the Dutch striker on loan.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Zirkzee has resurfaced on Juventus’ radar after United softened their position regarding his exit. Corriere dello Sport also states that negotiations are underway between the Serie A club and United for a straight loan deal until the end of the season. Juventus is in dire need of attacking options and views Zirkzee, who enjoyed success in Italy with Bologna, as a low-risk addition to their forward line.

Zirkzee has struggled to establish a starting position at Old Trafford, primarily serving as a backup to the main forwards. However, allowing his departure without a replacement would leave Carrick alarmingly short of options in attack, a risk that could jeopardize their pursuit of a top-four finish.

The failure to finalize the Neves deal, coupled with the potential exit of Zirkzee, sketches a picture of a transfer window characterized by restraint rather than ambition. Other than the loan departure of young talent Harry Amass to Norwich City, it has been a notably quiet month at Carrington.

The inability to secure Neves indicates that United may be reserving their resources for a significant overhaul in the summer transfer window. With the new ownership model becoming established, the club seems prepared to prioritize a more strategic approach over immediate fixes this season. However, for fans eager for a spark to invigorate their Champions League ambitions, the news of their primary midfield target remaining in Saudi Arabia is undoubtedly a bitter disappointment.