According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona is keeping an eye on Pedro Neto, a winger for Chelsea, ahead of the summer transfer window. The Portugal international is on the Catalan giants’ short list of possible offensive additions. With 10 goals and six assists in 42 games in all competitions this season, the Chelsea attacker has drawn interest from Barcelona.
Neto also contributed to Chelsea’s triumphant conclusion to the previous campaign, which saw the team win the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Europa Conference League. The 26-year-old’s flexibility, especially his ability to play on either wing, is allegedly valued by Barcelona. On a few instances, he has also led the queue.
The La Liga leaders are looking at ways to bolster their offensive depth, and internal club reports are reportedly quite favourable about the winger’s technical abilities. If Neto were to join the La Liga powerhouses, though, it would raise serious concerns about his position. Barcelona’s wings are secure thanks to Raphinha and young wonder Lamine Yamal.
Barcelona eye Chelsea star Pedro Neto
La Liga’s strict wage ceiling rules and Barcelona’s unstable financial position will determine any pursuit of Neto. The club is currently juggling a number of high-profile targets, such as a long-standing interest in Atletico Madrid forward Julián Álvarez and a permanent move for loan star Marcus Rashford, who is available for €30 million.
According to reports, Neto’s contract contains a specific clause that could facilitate an exit if he expresses a desire for a new challenge. Barca must consider if the Portuguese star is a better bargain than their other offensive options, though, since Chelsea is sure to seek a sizeable return on their original investment.
Both Neto and the present members of the Barcelona team will have a last tryout in the last few months of the season. Maintaining the winger’s market worth and standing within the Portuguese national team requires him to carve out regular minutes in a crowded Chelsea front line.
In the meantime, Rashford must play a significant number of games at Camp Nou in order to get a long-term deal, which would have an immediate effect on the team’s attempt to sign Neto. As Barcelona finalises their shortlist for what seems to be a pivotal transfer window, they will keep an eye on Neto’s disciplinary record and health.
