Arsenal is making a strategic move to thwart Newcastle’s pursuit of Ruben Neves, eyeing the talented midfielder to bolster their squad in the upcoming January transfer window. This unexpected twist comes as a welcome development for the Gunners, grappling with the prolonged absence of Thomas Partey due to a thigh injury.

Newcastle, seeking reinforcements in the midfield after Sandro Tonali’s betting-related ban, had initially targeted Neves from Al-Hilal. Their plans for a loan move, facilitated by shared ownership with PIF Group, are now in jeopardy due to an imminent Premier League rule change. This potential alteration, preventing teams from loaning players from clubs with the same owners, improves Arsenal’s chances of securing Neves in January.

Gunners’ chief Edu is a known admirer of the 26-year-old Portuguese international, who brings considerable Premier League experience from his six-year stint at Wolves. Neves, having played 253 games for Wolves, scoring 30 goals, and captaining the side, made a £47 million move to Al-Hilal in the summer.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, acknowledging Neves as a player they admired during his Wolves tenure, remains open to signings from any location. However, potential challenges could arise if the impending rule change is enforced, adding uncertainty to their pursuit.

Here is the video of some skills highlights of Ruben Neves. 

Arsenal performance and stats

Arsenal is currently 3rd in the Premier League with 27 points.

In the last 12 games, it has won 8 times, drawn 3 times, and lost once. In its last match, Arsenal won 3-1 against Burnley.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 26 goals and conceding 10.​

Arsenal will play the next match in Premier League against Brentford on Saturday 25th of November in Brentford.​

Newcastle United performance and stats

Newcastle United is currently 7th in the Premier League with 20 points.

In the last 12 games, it has won 6 times, drawn twice, and lost 4 times. In its last match, Newcastle United lost 2-0 against AFC Bournemouth.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 27 goals and conceding 13.​

Newcastle United will play the next match in Premier League against Chelsea on Saturday 25th of November in Newcastle upon Tyne.​