Barcelona begin talks to land top Man Utd, Arsenal midfield target from Premier League rival

Barcelona are reportedly preparing a summer move for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves, news that will concern the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford and the Emirates since last summer, with the Molineux outfit said to have slapped a £40million asking price on the player to try and ward off interest.

That appeared to work as neither Premier League side made a move. However, the Daily Mail reports that Barca have begun talks with intermediaries over a summer swoop for the Portugal man.

Neves currently has more than two years left on his contract. That leaves Wolves in a strong position when negotiating their asking price for the player.

Jorgen Mendes, Neves’ agent, secured a loan move for Adama Traore to the Nou Camp last summer. That deal, which could become permanent in the summer, included Francisco Trincao heading to Molineux.

Wolves signed Neves from Porto for just £16m in 2017 when they were still in the Championship.

He has gone on to make over 200 appearances for the club and is renowned for his long-range striking.

While Bruno Lage does not want to lose another one of his top stars, the report adds that Neves will be tempted by a move to Catalonia.

That would deal a blow to both United and Arsenal, who are both keen on landing the playmaker.

READ MORE: Wolves preparing for permanent exit of key figure with deal close to being finalised