Former Premier League midfielder, who currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, Ruben Neves disclosed that he was on the verge of joining either Barcelona or Arsenal before eventually moving to the Middle East.
In an interview, Neves admitted feeling “disheartened” when potential moves to Barcelona or Arsenal did not materialize.
He said: “I was close to three clubs and it didn’t happen, which saddened me and helped me decide to go to Al Hilal.
“I didn’t want to put names forward, but Barcelona was one of the hottest and it wasn’t a lie. It was close to happening, just like with Arsenal.
“Then there was another club outside England. It was events that piled up and then, with this golden opportunity [to sign for Al Hilal], I had no hesitation in accepting. I was already calloused with transfers that don’t happen.”
Barcelona’s financial constraints prevented them from meeting Wolves’ valuation, while Arsenal opted to splash over £100 million on West Ham United’s Declan Rice rather than pursuing Neves, who was available for half the price.
From 2017 to 2023, Neves enjoyed a remarkable spell with Wolverhampton Wanderers, featuring in 253 matches across all competitions and contributing to the club’s establishment as a Premier League mainstay.