It’s probably not the right time right after Xavi Alonso has been sacked, but the time is now, before the winter window closes. Ruben Neves is desperate to play for Real Madrid, not only to escape the sand, which seems to be everywhere in Saudi Arabia, but also because he actually wants to play football at a high level again.
Surprisingly, with playing in Saudi Arabia best likened to giving up, Rúben Neves has become one of the most sought-after options to bolster Real Madrid’s midfield. The profile fits, and the need is clear: a defensive midfielder with judgment, experience, and the ability to organize the game.
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The fans demand it, and the club values it, even though there are very clear nuances in financial terms. The Portuguese player currently plays for Al Hilal, where his contract expires at the end of this season. This contractual situation opens a window that the player’s immediate environment is trying to exploit.
Is Rúben Neves what Real Madrid are missing?
There is a consensus in Real Madrid regarding the diagnosis. They lack a defensive midfielder who can balance, protect the defence and ensure clean ball play. Rúben Neves meets these criteria. Leadership, experience from large arenas and a tactical profile that fits the demands of LaLiga.
Moreover, the Portuguese player does not hide his desire. He is willing to reduce his demands and prioritize the sporting project over other factors.
The financial obstacle sets the tone for the operation
Herein lies the main problem. Real Madrid are not considering paying a transfer fee in this winter market for Rúben Neves. The policy is clear: if someone arrives in January, it must be at zero cost or under very advantageous conditions.
Therefore, the only possible route is through an early finish with Al Hilal, which is not guaranteed at this point.
Al Hilal’s role in the negotiation
There is no rush from Saudi Arabia. Al Hilal have Rúben Neves under contract until the end of the season and have no financial pressure to facilitate his departure. However, the club is aware that the player will not renew and could leave for free this summer.
La Liga, the player’s main goal
For Rúben Neves, a return to a top European league is a priority. LaLiga represents a sporting and competitive opportunity that he considers crucial at this stage of his career. The midfielder believes he still has a lot of football to offer at the highest level and sees Real Madrid as the ideal venue.
Time plays a crucial role
Time is running out. The market is moving, and Real Madrid will not trade unless the exact conditions are met. In the meantime, Rúben Neves awaits. He hopes that Al Hilal will agree to negotiate an early exit that unlocks the operation.
If not, the scenario is moved to the summer, where the player would be free and the white club would have an open door. Until then, the situation remains on hold. The desire is there, the need too, but only a sign from Saudi Arabia can bring Rúben Neves to Real Madrid and allow him to compete again in La Liga.
Ruben Neves earns 25 million euros a year tax-free in Saudi Arabia. – To be able to play for Real Madrid, he has to “sacrifice” more than half.
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