Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Bruno Lage has warned Manchester United off making a January move for Portuguese midfielder Ruben Neves.
The Red Devils are allegedly keen to sign the 24-year-old during the winter transfer window but could wait until the end of the campaign to make a firm offer for the Portugal international.
Neves has again been in strong form for Wolves this season, scoring once and providing one assist in 19 appearances in all competitions.
When questioned on the recent transfer speculation, Lage explained the importance of the club keeping hold of their key players in order to continue to take steps forward.
"When you want to do the next step and every time you are selling your best players, then the next step can never happen," Lage told reporters.
"We are here with the project and our ideas - that's everyone: the chairman, sporting director and the manager. The main point is to continue with the same players, try to improve them and go to the next level."
Man United are said to be prepared to pay £35m to sign Neves, but Wolves are believed to value the former Porto youngster in excess of £40m.
Matt Law
