Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves could join Barcelona on an initial loan spell in the January transfer window, according to a new update that has emerged.

The Lowdown: Neves stays put

The Portuguese had seemingly played his last game for the club at the end of last season after waving goodbye to the supporters after their trip to Liverpool in May.

Neves was continually linked with a move to Barcelona throughout the summer, but against all odds, he ended up staying put at Molineux beyond deadline day.

However, it now looks as though the midfielder's exit could once again be edging closer.

The Latest: January move instead?

According to Sport (via Sport Witness), a six-month loan move to Barca is in the offing this coming January prior to Neves sealing a permanent switch to the Nou Camp next summer.

It is claimed that 'everything is very advanced' regarding the transfer and the fee will be 'far removed' from the €50m (£43.6m) Wolves demanded in the summer.

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The Verdict: Exit feels inevitable

In truth, it was a massive bonus that Wolves managed to keep hold of Neves this season - Jose Sa has called him 'amazing' - considering how nailed-on his exit looked at one point.

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There is almost a feeling of destiny about him ending up at Barca at this point, with the lure of the La Liga giants great for Portuguese players considering past greats such as Luis Figo and Deco played for them.

However, it would be ideal for Wolves to hold on to Neves until the end of the season, with an exit midway through the campaign having the potential to create a huge void in the middle of the park.