Newcastle United have shown a willingness to be reactive in the transfer market.
Indeed, while the PIF era has so far been defined by a well planned out recruitment policy, Newcastle are not overly rigid when it comes to signing players.
Tino Livramento, for example, was not thought to have necessarily been targeted earlier this summer but the club moved for him when an opportunity emerged.
Lewis Hall, meanwhile, had reportedly agreed to join Crystal Palace before Newcastle made their move.
So, with the situation unclear as to the fate of Sandro Tonali, the club might have to react again.
Newcastle transfer news: Ruben Neves move considered
According to The Daily Telegraph, the club could yet to decide to move for Ruben Neves of Al-Hilal.
The Portugal international was linked with a move to St James’ Park as he was leaving Wolves but ultimately signed a £300k-per-week contract with the Saudi Arabian side.
Given the club are reportedly likely to favour loan moves in January, Neves could be targeted. PIF also own the Saudi side he’s playing for, though money for a permanent transfer could yet be made available.
Ruben Neves to Newcastle: Move would prove controversial
The idea of PIF loaning a player from one club they own to another would unlikely go down well amongst the rest of the Premier League.
Still, Newcastle aren’t here to be popular. They have battles to fight both on the domestic front and in a European sense, so must be ruthless in their attempts to strengthen.
Neves is clearly proven in the Premier League during his time at Wolves, so would represent a relatively risk-free addition.
Hailed by Alan Shearer for his performance for the Molineux side against Crystal Palace only last season, it would be a logical addition for the club at a time when they weren’t necessarily expecting to sign a midfielder.
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