Manchester United are eyeing up a move for Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves in the summer transfer window, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Lowdown: Neves shines at Wolves

The 24-year-old is enjoying an excellent season for Wanderers, recapturing his best form and standing out as a key performer under Bruno Lage. He has featured in 17 of Wolves' 18 Premier League matches this term, starting 15 of those, while also being described as 'magnificent' by Jamie Redknapp in the past.

However, the Portugal midfielder has been linked with a move away from Molineux, with United thought to be circling.

The Latest: Man United backed to make move for Neves

Speaking to Give Me Sport, O'Rourke admitted that the Red Devils have long been monitoring Neves, although a shock January exit has been deemed unlikely.

The journalist claimed: "Ruben Neves, again, has been a long-term target for Man United. An excellent midfielder, had a good few seasons with Wolves in the Premier League so he’s Premier League proven. I don’t see a move happening in January."

The Verdict: Potential massive blow

Neves is such an influential player for Wolves and is still only 24, so the idea of him leaving for United is a hugely worrying one from a Wanderers perspective.

His ability to dictate play in the middle of the park is arguably unrivalled at Molineux - he has enjoyed an 83.4% pass completion rate - and he has averaged 2.1 tackles per game in the league this season (fourth-highest in the squad), showing that he is also strong off the ball.

Neves would take some replacing at Wolves if he does end up at Old Trafford, and Ralf Rangnick will get a close look at him on Monday evening when the two teams lock horns in their latest Premier League clash.

In other news, Tim Spiers has made a key injury hint regarding a Wolves hero. Find out who it is here.