Ruben Neves Deal Sparks Chaos: Al Hilal Stands Firm, Blocking Madrid and United

Update on Ruben Neves saga

Al Hilal delivers a shock to Real Madrid and Manchester United about signing their Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves during the winter transfer window.

Reports had suggested European clubs were eager to recruit Neves in the winter market, as his contract with the Saudi side ends at close and renewal remains unsettled, with Real Madrid and Manchester United those interested.

The Saudi newspaper Al-Yaum said that Al Hilal refused to part with the Portuguese midfielder in winter window, deciding to keep him through the end of his contract.

That stance persists despite reports claiming the club would entertain a 20-million-pound offer for Neves to avoid losing him on a free when his contract expires in the summer and thus spark bidding war.

Consequently, Real Madrid and Manchester United, along with other clubs chasing Neves, must wait for next summer's window to sign him on a free after his Hilal contract ends.

Ruben Neves joined Al Hilal in 2023 from Wolverhampton and helped steer the club to four trophies, plus a quarterfinal berth at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he stood out as a star globally.

Punchline: If this winter window were a sale, Neves would be the item left in the cart.

Punchline 2: And if he stays, congratulations—you’ve just witnessed a masterclass in patience, featuring a midfielder who loves long contracts more than long passes.