Eddie Howe breaks silence on new PL rule that could block Ruben Neves transfer

New regulations may hinder former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves’ chances of returning to the Premier League. Clubs in the top flight are scheduled to vote on November 21 to implement rules that would prohibit the signing of players from associated teams.

In the case of Neves, these regulations would block any potential move from his current Saudi club, Al-Hilal, to Newcastle United.

Neves, who plays in the Saudi Pro League, was previously linked with a transfer to Newcastle, especially after the extended absence of midfielder Sandro Tonali. The Magpies could have leveraged their Saudi connections to facilitate transfers from the Middle East, with Neves being a prime example.

When questioned about the reasons behind these new rules, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe refrained from providing specific details but hinted that reporters could “assume” that his team would be challenging the proposed changes. Howe, having dealt with various off-the-field inquiries since taking charge of the club, demonstrated his adeptness at handling such topics.

“I will let you decide why those rules are coming in,” he said. “That’s not for me to comment on.”

“We will work within the rules the Premier League set and we have to respect those rules, whatever they are. I have to be careful and draw a line on what I can talk about.

“I’m not involved in that world, I’m involved in the football world. We want to compete on the pitch within the rules that are set for us. It’s difficult for me to give you chapter and verse because it’s not a situation I’m in any control over.

“I’m reacting to what is happening. It’s probably better that you draw conclusions to that, not me. I wouldn’t know the motives behind the rule changes coming in. It’s very difficult for me to give a definitive opinion, we just have to react to the changes as they come in.”

Neves made 253 appearances for Wolves, scoring 30 goals and making 13 assists. He was a prominent figure at Molineux for many years.