Al-Hilal attempt to block Manchester United transfer pursuit

Al-Hilal are one of the sides aiming for success in the Saudi Pro League this season.

The outfit, who currently sit third in the league, have picked up 26 points this season so far.

However, even at this stage of the campaign, Hilal are four points off Al-Nassr (who are top of the Saudi Arabian top flight currently).

With this in mind, the January transfer window could offer the opportunity to improve the depth and quality that the side can provide.

One league that the side may choose to look towards is the Premier League, where players are currently excelling.

However, whilst recruitment is important, retention may also be imperative if the outfit are to succeed in the second half of the season.

One player Al-Hilal may look to retain to Ruben Neves, who joined the outfit in 2023.

Since joining the Saudi Pro League side, the midfielder has made 114 appearances, scoring 14 times.

Furthermore, in the 2025-26 season specifically, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man has scored six times and assisted a further three goals in 22 games.

With this in mind, the 28-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United, with United contacting Neves in recent weeks.

Now, it appears that Al-Hilal are trying to stop this pursuit.

According to TalkSport, Hilal have offered Ruben Neves a new contract with improved terms and a two-year length.

Furthermore, the source has revealed that Neves is currently considering this offer having previously turned down new contract offers from the Saudi Pro League side.

With this news now revealed, fans may look towards Ruben Neves to see what decision he makes in the coming weeks.

If he was to say yes to this offer, a successful deal with Manchester United arguably may become less likely.