Newcastle United‘s plans have taken a massive blow as Al-Hilal star Ruben Neves has denied any return to the Premier League. The Portuguese star joined Al-Hilal this season following his departure from Wolves. With their defensive midfielder Sandro Tonali facing a season-long ban owing to his betting case, the Magpies were hoping to secure the services of Ruben Neves.

However, it seems like the Portuguese midfielder is enjoying his time in Saudi Arabia. Neves, in an interview with BBC, touched down on a potential return to the Premier League. The Al-Hilal midfielder made it clear that he has no plans of taking a flight back to England.

Ruben Neves shuns rumors of potential move to Newcastle United

The 26-year-old left everyone stunned when he left the Premier League to pursue a lucrative deal in the Saudi Pro League. However, it seems like things have worked out well for Ruben Neves. In an interview with BBC Sport, Neves talked about his move to Saudi Arabia and potential interest from Newcastle United, “I don’t go. I think that’s rumors because of the owner of the clubs, of course, and because I’ve played in England as well. There was Newcastle’s interest before I came here but I’m really happy here, my family’s really happy, so I’m having a great time. Everything is going really well for me and I want to stay here.”

Neves’s statement is an enormous blow for Newcastle United, who was hoping to sign the Portuguese midfielder on a short-term loan. The English side had been on the receiving end of setbacks this season with their star signing, Sandro Tonali ruled out for the rest of the season owing to a betting scandal.

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Sandro Tonali banned for ten months

Newcastle United made a big signing this summer as they secured the services of AC Milan superstar Sandro Tonali. The signing was seen as an enormous coup, as fans expected the player to bolster the Magpies. However, things have not gone according to plan for Eddie Howe’s men.

Newcastle posted an official statement in October confirming that Sandro Tonali will be missing the rest of the season after being found guilty in an illegal betting case. “Sandro Tonali has been banned from competitive football for ten months, as effective from Friday, 27th October 2023, following illegal betting charges by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).”