Arsenal and Manchester City are keeping a close eye on Chelsea winger Pedro Neto ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports. Metro and Sports Mole report that the two Premier League title rivals have maintained the 26-year-old as a priority target, though Chelsea are demanding a premium package ranging from £60m to nearly £100m to part with the Portuguese international. No formal bid has been submitted, but interest is intensifying as clubs draw up their winter market strategies.
Arsenal search for depth after summer departures
Mikel Arteta’s side remain in the market for wide reinforcements after selling Belgian international Leandro Trossard earlier in the summer. While the Gunners completed the £40m signing of left winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge to bolster their options, former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere believes additional elite depth is needed. Speaking to Metro, Aliadiere said: "Pedro Neto could be a great option. He’s played in the Premier League for many years, is established, knows the league, a very, very good player."
Chelsea's high valuation and squad stance
Securing Neto will prove financially complex. The winger, who joined Chelsea from Wolves for £54m in 2024, is under a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge running until 2031. This lengthy commitment gives Chelsea significant leverage, resulting in their steep valuation. Journalist Simon Phillips reports that Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is "more than happy to keep Neto in his squad." With the player firmly in Alonso's plans, Chelsea are under no immediate pressure to sell, meaning Arsenal or Manchester City would have to pay close to the maximum threshold of Chelsea's valuation to tempt them into a sale.
