Manchester United stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes could play a key role in persuading Ruben Neves to swap Wolverhampton Wanderers for Old Trafford, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

Interim manager Ralf Rangnick failed to welcome any reinforcements to the red half of Manchester during the January transfer window, but the Red Devils are already looking at potential acquisitions ahead of the summer.

What's the latest news involving Neves?

The Sun revealed in January that Manchester United were determined to prise Neves away from Molineux before the winter window slammed shut.

Although a move failed to come to fruition, it was reported that Wolves are willing to sanction the Portuguese midfielder's departure for in the region of £45million amid additional interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal.

According to Italian media outlet Calciomercato, Serie A giants Juventus have joined the duo in the race for Neves' signature.

Neves still has just shy of two-and-a-half years remaining on his £58,000-per-week contract at Wolves, meaning the West Midlands club are in a strong negotiating position if Manchester United or any other suitors decide to lodge a bid in the summer.

The Red Devils' continued interest in Neves comes while football director John Murtough has confirmed a 'thorough process' is underway to find their next permanent manager.

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What has Pete O'Rourke said about Neves?

O'Rourke believes the opportunity to play alongside fellow countrymen Ronaldo and Fernandes could convince Neves to join Manchester United at the end of the season.

Neves, who boasts 26 Portugal caps, has featured in the same XI as the Red Devils duo on the international stage.

O'Rourke feels being able to link-up with the pair on a more regular basis could be enough to persuade Neves to head to Manchester.

The journalist told GIVEMESPORT: "There's a big Portuguese connection, not just Wolves but also at Old Trafford right now.

"The chance to play with Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes would definitely be something that would attract Ruben Neves, I'm sure."

Why is Neves of interest ahead of the summer?

Manchester United could find themselves light in midfield as Paul Pogba appears to be on his way out of Old Trafford.

Pogba's current agreement, worth £290,000-per-week, expires at the end of June and the Frenchman has shown no interest in agreeing fresh terms despite the Red Devils offering a new contract worth £500,000-per-week.

According to Spanish sources, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United are interested in securing Pogba's services at the end of his deal.

As a result, Neves could help to fill the void left by Pogba's expected departure.