The Portuguese was on the radar of several elite European clubs last summer, but he opted to join Al-Hilal from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Neves has been splendid in the early months of his Al-Hilal career but reports recently claimed that Mikel Arteta wants him at the Gunners.

However, a deal looks unlikely on the cards with the midfielder deciding against a return to the Premier League in the next window.

The 26-year-old wants to stay committed to Al-Hilal for the rest of the campaign and he will only make a decision in the summer.

The news is a potential blow for the Gunners, who are aiming to sign a new holding midfielder in January due to the African Cup of Nations.

Thomas Partey is currently nursing a thigh problem but he is expected to be fit by the New Year and could travel with Ghana for AFCON.

Mohamed Elneny will also be away with Egypt and this leaves the club with Jorginho as the only no.6 if Declan Rice starts in central midfield.

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