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Everton should show that they mean business in the transfer market with a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves.

What's the word, then?

Manchester United and Manchester City have both been linked with moves for Neves, who has excelled for Wolves in the Premier League this season.

Neves joined Wolves from Porto in a £15.8m move during the summer of 2017, and starred during their title-winning Championship season.

Indeed, Neves scored six times in 42 appearances in the second tier, and proved that he was miles too good for that level of football.

The midfielder has had no problems adjusting to life in the top flight, managing two goals and one assist in 12 Premier League appearances at the start of the 2018-19 campaign.

Wolves will find it tough to keep hold of the eight-time Portugal international on a long-term basis, and Everton should certainly be in the hunt for the midfielder.

Why should Everton make a move?

Everton have ambitious of becoming a Champions League team, and would show their ambition by moving for a player of Neves' ilk.

Neves – valued at £36m by Transfermarkt – has a contract with Wolves until the summer of 2023, but as already mentioned, he will surely move on sooner or later.

Neves captained Porto in the Champions League during his time with the Portuguese giants, and has an excellent future in the game.

Just 21 years of age, the midfielder would be an outstanding signing for Everton, and one that would send a serious message to the rest of the Premier League.

A lot would have to fall into place for Everton to be able to complete a deal, but Neves is the calibre of player that the Toffees must target as they attempt to close the gap on the teams above them.