According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United have set their sights on a move for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves, who is a target for La Liga leaders Barcelona.
The 25-year-old Portuguese ace has just 18 months left on his current contract at the Molineux and has indicated that he is not particularly keen on a new deal. It has led to rumours over his future, with Barça being heavily linked with a move.
The Catalans are in the market for a new midfielder as a possible replacement for Sergio Busquets. The veteran club captain is out of contract at the end of the season and is being linked with an exit.
And the Barça board is reportedly favouring a move for Neves as a replacement, even though manager Xavi Hernandez is not entirely sold on the idea of the Portuguese international as a pivot midfielder.
But now, Newcastle United have seemingly entered the race to secure the signing of the 25-year-old midfielder.
The Magpies have become one of the most exciting projects in England since the change in ownership last year. Under Eddie Howe, they have made rapid strides on the pitch and have become a contender for a top-four finish in the Premier League.
They are looking to further strengthen their squad and have set their sights on a move for Neves.
As iterated earlier, he has 18 months left on his contract, meaning the Portuguese will be in the final year of his deal come summer, which would make him available for a bargain price come summer.
While Barcelona continue to hold a serious interest, they could find it difficult to match the financial muscle of Newcastle, who would be in a much better position to offer Neves a bigger, superior contract.
However, the midfielder has previously spoken of his desire to play for the Blaugrana, while his agent, Jorge Mendes, has close ties with president Joan Laporta. So, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Neves, who will be on his way out of Wolves this year.