Newcastle United are eyeing a January move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves as they prepare to spend the next ten months without Sandro Tonali, according to the Sun.
The Italy international admitted to placing bets when playing for Brescia and AC Milan, and he will now miss action for almost a year as a result of a ban.
Newcastle need a replacement given that the squad depth in the middle of the park has been dealt a massive blow, and they have identified Neves as a potential target for the winter transfer window.
The former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain moved to the Saudi Pro League in the summer but could soon be on his way back to England if the Magpies manage to have their way.
However, it remains to be seen whether Newcastle can match the wages Al-Hilal currently offer the Portugal international star.
Wolves left-back Hugo Bueno heaped praise on the‘incredible’ Neves after his superb equaliser against Brentford in November 2022, and the Toons could do with his exceptional eye for spectacular goals from a distance.
Al-Hilal also belong to Newcastle owners the Saudi Public Investment Fund, and the Magpies are exploring a loan move for the 26-year-old, which could be beneficial for all the parties involved.
Neves joined Wolves from Porto in 2017, helping the Molineux Stadium club seal Premier League promotion after his debut season before leaving after weighing in with 30 goals and 13 assists in 253 appearances.
Newcastle could do with his huge experience and quality, but they also have Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on their radar.
The former Leeds United star has struggled for playing chances under manager Pep Guardiola since joining the Etihad Stadium club in 2022, and a move elsewhere in January could be appealing as he looks to boost his chances of making it to Euro 2024 with England.
