By Wayne Veysey

23rd May, 2023 | 6:00pm

Sources: Liverpool have 'concrete' interest in signing star with same agent as Darwin Nunez

Liverpool have a “concrete” interest in Wolves star Ruben Neves, sources have told Football Insider.

The 26-year-old made clear his plans to quit the Molineux club this summer following an emotional lap of honour in the aftermath of Saturday’s (20 May) 1-1 draw with Everton.

Barcelona are in pole position to sign Neves in what Spanish media claim could be a part-exchange deal with winger Ansu Fati.

There are also suggestions that the Portugal international has already verbally agreed personal terms with the Catalan giants.

However, it is believed Wolves want a cash-only transfer for their captain, who is represented by the influential super agent Jorge Mendes.

Liverpool are lurking in the wings in case an agreement cannot be reached between Wolves and Barcelona.

The Merseysiders made an enquiry for Neves in the January window but Wolves were not willing to sell mid-season.

A well-placed Liverpool source has told Football Insider that the former Porto star is highly regarded by the Reds’ recruitment team for his outstanding passing range.

The belief behind the scenes is that Neves could fit seamlessly into the Merseysiders’ style of play under Jurgen Klopp.

Neves is represented by Mendes’ Gestifute agency – alongside current Liverpool stars Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and Fabinho.

The Wolves captain has made 40 appearances across all competitions in the 2022-23 campaign, notching six goals and one assist.

He joined the Molineux club in the Championship back in 2017 and has a contract which runs until June 2024.

Liverpool are plotting a midfield rebuild following a disappointing 2022-23 campaign.

Football Insider revealed on Friday (19 May) that Klopp’s side are progressing with talks to sign Alexis Mac Allister – with Brighton now resigned to losing the World Cup winner.

In other news, senior man flying to England to finalise short-term Liverpool deal.