Real Madrid have been one of the most active teams in the summer transfer window. They are currently going through a proper overhaul under the leadership of new manager Xabi Alonso.
They have made some strong defensive reinforcements as it was an area of concern for Los Blancos. Now, Alonso is looking to bring a midfielder who can control the tempo and bring calmness to the middle of the park.
As per reports via Marca, Alonso's demands were rejected by the team management as they feel that there's enough firepower in Madrid's midfield with players such as Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Ceballos.
However, fresh reports via Fichajes suggest that Real Madrid have shown interest in signing Al-Hilal star midfielder Ruben Neves. This comes after Real Madrid's 1-1 draw against the Saudi Pro League outfit in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Alonso was extremely impressed with his dominance in the middle of the park and therefore has made demands to sign Neves this summer. He needs someone who can fill the void of Luka Modric for the upcoming season.
Los Blancos also showed some interest in Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi, but as per reports, the Spanish midfielder is on his way to Arsenal. So, since they are losing a legendary figure in midfield, they need someone who can pull off a similar role and Alonso feels Neves could be that figure.
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A look at Neves' contract situation at Al-Hilal
Neves moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023 from Wolves, where he had spent six seasons in the Premier League. He is someone who does his job day in, day out and isn't as flashy as some of the other midfielders in his position.
Although he has left European football, he continues to marshal the midfield for the Portugal national team alongside players like Joao Neves, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, etc.
So there's no question about his quality, as he brings exceptional passing range, vision and calmness to the midfield. He is an experienced figure and could be a key part in the Real Madrid dressing room if the deal materialises.
However, the primary roadblock in this deal could be agreeing to a transfer fee with Al-Hilal due to their financial muscle and also convincing the player to take a significant wage cut to move to the Spanish capital.
At this moment, Real Madrid are yet to place an official bid for the 28-year-old. But Neves' contract with Al-Hilal runs out in 2026, so Madrid could just wait for a year and then push for the services of the Portuguese midfielder on a free transfer.
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