Manchester United hold a strong interest in Wolves’ Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves.

What’s the word?

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who spoke on The United Stand podcast.

“A name I keep hearing around Manchester United is Ruben Neves, he is a player who was always around Manchester United since last summer.

“But the answer I am always receiving on Ruben Neves and Manchester United is it depends on the fee, because on Wolves’ side they discuss about €100m (£86m) for Ruben Neves; it is something Manchester United would not do.”

Imagine him and Frenkie

If Manchester United could fork out the cash for Neves and another of their targets Frenkie de Jong, they could form a remarkable midfield partnership to sit just behind the mercurial Bruno Fernandes, an eventuality that would surely elate supporters at Old Trafford.

Neves has impressed since coming up from the Championship with Wolves, cementing himself as one of the league’s best central midfielders. His average SofaScore rating of 7.11 outlines him as a consistent high-performer in the heart of midfield, and he averages 65.11 passes attempted per 90.

He could act as the metronome for United, whilst also sitting in the 81st percentile for clearances, showing he does have some willingness to do the dirty work.

De Jong also prefers to be more creative, but perhaps if he and Neves shared the defensive work it would allow them both the space to flourish. The Netherlands international sits in the 94th percentile for progressive carries per 90, boasting a 90.1% pass completion.

Old Trafford favourite Rio Ferdinand praised Neves’ midfield work this season, stating: “I like him, he’s fantastic. He keeps the ball, he keeps it as well as anyone. Really good footballer.”

He would surely represent a huge upgrade on Scott McTominay and Fred who are already at the club and would add another touch of class if Erik ten Hag is to tempt both him and De Jong to join.

If he could manage it, they would almost instantly become one of the best midfield partnerships in the league on paper, and would only boost United’s chances of climbing up the table, something that would delight the entire United fanbase.

AND, in other news: Sky Sports reveal big Manchester United transfer update, supporters will be buzzing.