He wears the Portugal shirt with pride. He has experience. He is playing in the Saudi Pro League. And he has not slowed down with age.
When Real Madrid were linked with a Portuguese player based in Saudi Arabia, fans could not help but wonder, could it really be Cristiano Ronaldo?
The rumours spread quickly, but this time, it is not about the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
The Spanish giants are indeed watching Saudi football closely.
But their attention is focused on a very different kind of player.
According to a Spanish source, Real Madrid have added a new name to their summer shortlist.
He is Portuguese, but plays deeper on the pitch.
He controls the tempo, leads with calmness, and has a long-range shot that makes goalkeepers nervous.
At 28, Ruben Neves is still in his prime, and his performances in Saudi Arabia have not gone unnoticed.
After years of impressing at Wolverhampton in the Premier League, Neves moved to Al Hilal.
Many thought the switch to the Middle East would slow him down. It did not.
He became a key player for the Saudi club, showing maturity and consistency week after week.
Now, with Real Madrid’s midfield preparing for changes, Ruben Neves fits the bill.
Some stars at the Bernabeu do not suit the style that their new manager, Xabi Alonso, wants to implement.
Madrid want someone who can step in with experience but still offer several years of high-level football.
Ruben Neves is open to returning to Europe.
The club is working behind the scenes.
No deal has been completed yet, but things could move quickly.
Real Madrid know what they want.
And if talks go well, their next signing from Saudi Arabia might not be Cristiano Ronaldo, but someone who could quietly become just as important; if not more.
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