Wolves captain Neves departs after six years at Molineux
He made 253 appearances and scored 30 goals for Wolves.
After six seasons at Molineux, Ruben Neves’ time with Wolves has come to an end.
He joins Saudi Pro League’s Al-Hilal on a permanent deal for a club record transfer fee of £47-million.
The midfielder signed from Porto in the summer of 2017. That year, he was named the player of the season by both his supporters and teammates as Wolves stormed to the Championship title.
Back in the top flight, the Portuguese then formed a strong partnership with Joao Moutinho, inspiring the club to the FA Cup semi-final and a seventh place finish in the Premier League.
Following Conor Coady’s exit on loan last summer, Neves took the armband permanently and revelled in the responsibility.
Now, with 253 appearances and 30 Wolves goals to his name, the iconic midfielder draws the curtain on his time at Molineux in search of a new challenge in the Middle East.
Sporting director Matt Hobbs said: “Everyone at Wolves would like to thank Ruben for all he has done for the club throughout his six years here. Not only for his effort and commitment as a player, but also as a person off the pitch.
“Ruben is the embodiment of everything you look for when trying to bring players into a football club; a leader, a humble man and an extremely talented footballer who took Wolves to a different level.
“He was part of a great era for this club and will go down as one of our best ever players. We are grateful for everything he has done for Wolves and wish him and his family the very best for the future.”