Could Portuguese star be Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillip’s replacement in January?

Ruben Neves, a former midfielder for Wolverhampton Wanderers, could potentially replace Kalvin Phillips in January.

Given the uncertain future of the England international at Etihad, Pep Guardiola’s squad may be compelled to seek a replacement for Phillips in the transfer market.

According to footballinsider247.com’s Wayne Veysey, the treble-winning club has a tangible interest in the Portuguese midfielder. City has Neves on their shortlist to succeed Phillips, according to Veysey. Additionally, according to Veysey, Pep Guardiola holds the midfielder based in Saudi Arabia in high regard.

As previously reported by Footballinsider247.com, Neves joined Al-Hilal under the condition that he could exit the Middle East immediately should the appropriate offer materialize. Neves has appeared in seventeen games for Al Hilal since his transfer to the Gulf State this summer, accumulating two goals and one assist.

Ruben Neves would fulfill numerous criteria for Manchester City as a player. Given his prior Premier League exposure with Wolves, he would likely require little time to adjust to the English game. He appeared in 253 games for Wolves throughout his tenure with the club. Neves emerged as undoubtedly the most vital member of the Wolves prior to joining Al Hilal for a substantial transfer fee during the summer transfer window.

It would seem that any prospective acquisition of Neves by Manchester City would be contingent upon the future of Kalvin Phillips. Graeme Bailey has reported for the past ninety minutes that Phillips is increasingly considering Newcastle United as a destination. The former Leeds United midfielder is eager to secure a starting position in the first team prior to the European Championships next year.

If Kalvin Phillips does decide to depart in January, Ruben Neves could potentially serve as an excellent substitute. If a transfer occurs, his prior Premier League experience and skill set could prove to be an invaluable asset for Manchester City.