'Keep an eye': Romano says that Arsenal could make late move to sign £35m star, he's on Edu's list

By John Verrall

Fabrizio Romano has suggested on the Don Robbie Youtube channel that Arsenal’s interest in Ruben Neves could ramp up in August.

Not first choice

Arsenal have been linked with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ midfielder Neves for some time now.

However, Romano says that Neves isn’t actually one of Arsenal’s top choices.

And he thinks that Mikel Arteta’s side will only push to sign the £35 million-rated midfielder (Athletic) late on in the transfer window, once they have explored other options.

“I continue saying that he’s in the list for Arsenal. Also because the Locatelli deal is getting more complicated,” he said.

“So he’s on the list for Arsenal, but he’s not the main option as of today. We have to consider him as an opportunity maybe in August.

“There is nothing imminent, but it is something to keep in eye on August for both clubs [United and Arsenal].

“He is not the main option so they are not negotiating now, to sign him immediately, but he could become an option in August.

“It’s something to keep an eye on in the coming weeks, as there are chances for him to leave the club, but he’s not sure yet.”

Xhaka replacement?

The appeal of signing Neves for Arsenal is clear to see.

The Portuguese international has a great deal of Premier League experience and at the age of 24 still has room to develop.

His passing range and long shots would bring a new dimension to Arsenal’s team and he could be a natural replacement for Granit Xhaka.

However, there were concerns about Xhaka’s mobility and Neves’ own weakness is arguably due to his lack of energy in the press.

He may, therefore, not be the perfect option for Arsenal, but if Xhaka was to depart he could still be a promising option.