Why Wolves should hold onto Ruben Neves amidst interest from Juventus
According to the Dailystar, Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves has been attracting interest from Serie A champions Juventus. The Portuguese international made a name for himself after guiding the Wolves to the Championship title last season.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s men have done a splendid job so far in the Premier League as they continue to punch above their weight. The Wolves have not lost against any of the top six sides this season, picking up draws against Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, and beating Chelsea.
Incidentally, Ruben Neves and Cristiano Ronaldo have the same agent in Jorge Mendes. The super agent is in the process of brokering a deal but Nuno Espirito Santo should do everything to hold onto his Portuguese asset.
Neves has been a massive influence in the Wolves side this season. Though his performances are not catchy to the eye, the 21-year-old doesn’t play higher the field either. But it’s his ability to dictate the play seamlessly in the middle of the park that makes him such a valuable asset.
The Wolves midfielder has averaged a pass success rate of 84% in the Premier League this season. He is the ultimate pass master in the team and everything goes through the midfielder before the team move up the field. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
Neves rarely makes his movements inside the opposition box with all his touches coming in the midfield.
He is superb at picking up the ball in the deep areas, releasing the forward runners with pinpoint passes. Neves has averaged 2.4 shots per game as well this season and has proven to be a potent weapon from long range. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
The midfielder scored a superb free-kick on the opening day of the season. He has also shown the true potential of a future Wolverhampton Wanderers captain and though the newcomers would be offered a handsome fee by Juventus, the club cannot afford to lose out on their best stars at such a crucial time.
Wolves are in the Premier League and have made a bright start to their campaign, losing such an influential box-to-box midfielder like Ruben Neves will surely derail their season.
Nuno Espirito Santo should do everything in his power to keep the Portuguese international at least until the end of the season so that the club retains its status as a Premier League outfit.