Wolverhampton Wanderers star Rúben Neves is Barcelona’s ‘number one objective’ to replace Sergio Busquets next summer.
That’s according to Sport, who say the Portuguese star is the ‘main candidate’ to replace the icon when the time comes to do so.
They state that Barcelona tried to sign him from Wolves in the summer but the financial issues at the Nou Camp made it impossible at the time.
Reinforcing the midfield is one of the priorities for next season, though, particularly as Busquets is out of contract.
Those in charge are targeting Neves to take over from the Blaugrana captain, with Xavi’s eyes very much on finding a pivot.
The La Liga giants already ‘sounded out’ Neves’ environment in the summer, contacting the player and Wolves about a potential move.
That never happened because of the financial limitations but with Neves contract expiring in 2024, the belief is at Molineux that they ‘will have to agree’ to his exit.
Super-agent Jorge Mendes represents the midfielder and relations with Barcelona have always been more fluid because of his good relationship with the Catalans.
It’s felt the Blaugrana coaching staff, the player and the agent will work together to give the green light to the operation and the idea of signing Neves is now ‘gaining ground’ on other options being looked at, like Martín Zubimendi.
This all comes a few days after it was hinted Barcelona could ditch the idea of moving for the Wolves star.
