Neves offered to Barca again but Xavi prefers Zubimendi

Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves has a contract at Wolves until 2024, but Jorge Mendes is making it clear that he could leave this summer. The player is one of those Barcelona have on their radar precisely because the agent has offered Barca the player. 

A few days ago, Mendes travelled to Barcelona and had a meeting with the Barcelona board. In it, both parties spoke about Ansu Fati, who has offers to leave, and the renewal of Balde, amongst other things. 'Mundo Deportivo' says that they also talked about Ruben Neves in that meeting.

The agent once again offered Barca the opportunity to buy the midfielder. The problem is that the La Liga side have yet to make a decision because Xavi has doubts. 

The Barcelona coach prefers Real Sociedad player Zubimendi. Xavi believes that the type of player Neves is means that he will be lacking some qualities needed to replace Busquets.

The dilemma for Barca is the cost of both Zubimendi and Neves. As Neves' contract expires in summer 2024, Barca could get him relatively cheaply whereas Zubimendi recently renewed until 2027 and has a buyout clause of 60 million euros. 

Barca have time to think. Ruben Neves is an option on the table and although he will have support at the Catalan club, Xavi is unsure whether Neves is the player he needs to lead the midfield.