Liverpool put the disappointment of their abject display against Wolves behind them with a comfortable derby victory over Everton.
Much was made of the improved showing from the midfield, with Fabinho and Jordan Henderson playing much better than in previous weeks.
One of the reasons the Reds lost the midfield battle in their game against Wolves was a commanding display from Ruben Neves. The Portuguese international has been linked with a possible move to Merseyside in the summer as part of an overhaul in the middle of the park.
On the latest episode of our Journo Insight Show, we asked goal.com’s Neil Jones for his take on the Neves rumours.
Liverpool’s Mason Mount Transfer Links EXPLAINED!
On the latest episode of our Journo Insight Show, we asked goal.com’s Neil Jones for his take on the Neves rumours.
Neil said:
“A looming shadow is Wolves could go down, so he would definitely have to be sold if Wolves were relegated. I do think he’s a good player. I’m not sure about the fit. I think Matheus Nunes is a more live target in that sense.
“I’m not sure there is a great need for a player like Neves. I think there’s a greater need for a player like [Matheus] Nunes or Mount. More of a runner, more of an engine as opposed to a Xabi Alonso-style player who sits deep and dictates the game.
“I haven’t heard anything. I’ve asked about Neves in the past. I’ve always been given the ‘not for us’. If Wolves go down, he’s going to go somewhere, you’d imagine cheap with a year left on his deal.
“I’ve been wrong before – I didn’t think Liverpool would go after Luis Diaz a year ago. We’ve got the ‘probables’, ‘maybes’ and the ‘probably nots’ – I’d put him in the ‘probably nots.’”
Redmen Reacts
Neves is a stylish player with superb technique, who does not necessarily fit into the mould of Liverpool’s successful but functional midfield of 2018-21. He offers a threat from distance and is a superb long-range passer.
A lot depends on how Jürgen Klopp sees the future of his side. Attempts to boost the technical ability in the middle of the park through the likes of Harvey Elliott and Thiago have not been completely successful. Should the manager wish to return to a more athletic midfield and rely on Trent Alexander-Arnold for creativity, then Neves seems an unlikely signing. However, if Wolves are to be relegated, there could be potential good value given that Neves would be in the last year of his contract.
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