Barça have Neves tied down but signing hinges on Xavi's decision
The Barcelona coach is not convinced Neves is the pivot he is looking for
Rúben Neves is still on Barcelona's radar to strengthen their midfield. The Portuguese international is open to the move and Barça have the operation completely closed at the expense of what Xavi Hernandez decides.
The Barça coach is not convinced by Neves' profile, but he also understands that it is the most viable option if he wants reinforcements in the middle of the pitch.
Neves was on the table last summer, too, but Barça prioritised other incorporations, so the signing was not negotiated. All the parties agreed to revisit the issue in 2023 and Jorge Mendes, the player's agent, has already presented the details of an operation that is very favourable in economic terms for Barça.
Wolverhampton valued Neves at around €50 million a few months ago, but the current figure will be much, much lower in the event that Barça activates a move.
But Ruben Neves's name does not currently generate a consensus between the sports area and the coaching staff at Barça. Xavi considers him a good player but he sees him more as an interior than as a pivot, which is what he wants.
Xavi would like other profiles such as Zubimendi (Real Sociedad) or Kanté (Chelsea). The former is financially unfeasible at the moment while the latter could arrive on a free although Barça are very attentive to his physical problems.
Neves knows first-hand that Barça will make a decision regarding him in the coming weeks. At the latest, in January he will know if he will play at Camp Nou or not. And in the event that Barça rules out siing him, he will activate one of the numerous offers from the Premier League he has.
