Journalist now drops big Arsenal and Ruben Neves update for January switch

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves.Highlights

Arsenal have been long-term admirers of Ruben Neves, but his hefty salary might make it difficult to bring him back to the Premier League. The potential ban on loan moves between associated clubs could impact Neves' transfer if Newcastle United come to the table, and journalist Ben Jacobs has provided all the details. Arsenal have alternatives lined up, with two players also linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves ahead of the January transfer window, and journalist Ben Jacobs has given an internal update on the situation to GIVEMESPORT.

Neves left the Premier League in the summer to take advantage of the riches on offer in Saudi Arabia, joining a host of players who have made the switch to the Middle East. At the age of 26, the Portuguese international still has plenty to give in the game, with most of the stars who have moved to the country being in the latter stages of their career.

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers man could easily be playing at the highest level for some top clubs in England, but the finances on offer in Saudi Arabia mean he's opted to leave Europe. Whether any club could tempt him to return to the continent remains to be seen.

Ruben Neves is wanted in the Premier League

It's no surprise that Neves decided to join Al-Hilal in the summer, with the former Porto midfielder reportedly earning £410k-a-week in Saudi Arabia. Last season, whilst Neves was still with Wolves in the Premier League, journalist Dean Jones told GIVEMESPORT that Arsenal were one of the clubs showing an interest in the 26-year-old.

A move failed to materialise, and Neves remained with the Midlands club until the summer, before making a £47m switch to the Saudi Pro League. Jacobs recently told GIVEMESPORT that Neves would be open to moving to Newcastle United in the January transfer window, with reports claiming that the Magpies are keen on bringing him in on loan to replace Sandro Tonali, who was banned for 10 months for breaching betting rules.

With PIF owning both Al-Hilal and Newcastle, the North East club could have an advantage in the race to secure his signature, but it's understood that Premier League clubs are set to vote on whether to fast-track a ban on loan moves between associated clubs.