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Ruben Neves on the market this summer?

Having once been a signing beyond the dreams of Wolverhampton Wanderers fans, Ruben Neves might not be part of the pack for much longer. The 24-year-old has become a key fixture at Molineux, having played a major role in their promotion campaign. However, with coach Nuno Espirito Santo moving on, Wolves might need to cash in on a player who could want to move on after losing an influential coach.

Though both club and player have been good for one another, reports suggest that this might be the ideal time for both parties to move on from one another. Wolves are believed to be increasingly comfortable with the prospect of cashing in on Neves. With both he and veteran playmaker Joao Moutinho not always complementing one another over the last 18 months, there might be the decision to give Moutinho another year, cash in big on Neves, and use those funds to supplement the new coach.

With the new coach expected to be the attack-minded Bruno Lage, too, there might not be the need for the two more static playmaking types that Wolves have employed under Nuno. Instead, we could see the arrival of a more energetic midfield partner for Moutinho, with the funds for Neves going towards making that happen.

Where will Ruben Neves leave for?

Unfortunately for Wolves fans, they might need to get used to seeing Neves in the shirt of another English side. Reports suggest that Liverpool and Arsenal are both extremely keen, while Manchester United have held a long-term interest. This could become problematic for the club, as they will be keen to avoid being seen as losing ambition or interest in the long-term project.

Funds, though, will be needed and it is believed that Neves, who has two years remaining, could fetch as much as £35m this summer. This would give the Wolves team more funding to spend on squad depth. Coach Nuno has previously made remarks regarding squad depth, which might play a role in the club deciding to make some interesting moves.

While Neves is an obvious fan favourite, his long-term fit at Molineux is no longer quite as obvious as it once was. As such, an exit might seem like an agreement that might suit all parties. As a key part of the revolution of Wolves, Neves can move on knowing that, winning a trophy aside, it is mission accomplished in the Midlands.

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