Ruben Neves says he “wants to stay” at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal and will not go on loan to Newcastle United.
The 26-year-old ex-Wolves captain, who was acquired by the Riyadh club for £47m in June.
There has been speculation that Newcastle – who are also owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund – want to sign the Portugal international in January.
However, when questioned about the possibility, Neves emphatically stated,: “I don’t go.”
“I think that’s rumours because of the owner of the clubs of course, and because I’ve played in England as well,” he added.
“There was Newcastle interest before I came here but I’m really happy here, my family’s really happy, so I’m having a great time.”
Newcastle received confirmation last week that they could pursue loan deals for players from clubs under the same Saudi ownership in January. This decision followed a vote by Premier League clubs on a temporary ban for related-party loans, which did not garner sufficient support.
The potential acquisition of Neves could address the midfield vacuum left by Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban due to a breach of betting rules. Manager Eddie Howe has openly acknowledged his admiration for the midfielder.
But Neves – who helped his side beat Riyadh rivals Al-Nassr 3-0 on Friday – said: “Everything is going really well for me and I want to stay here.”