Manchester City have identified Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as a potential target, but any attempt to prise the Portugal international away from Stamford Bridge is likely to require a huge fee.
The rivalry between the two clubs could have an extra edge this season following Enzo Maresca’s controversial departure from Chelsea.
The Italian left Stamford Bridge before taking over from Pep Guardiola at City, later confirming that his resignation had “opened a path” for the move.
Now Maresca could be looking to raid his former club for one of Chelsea’s key players.
Chelsea Set Price for Pedro Neto
Manchester City are interested in Pedro Neto, but Chelsea have placed a £100 million valuation on the winger, according to talkSPORT.
City are considering the 26-year-old as a potential replacement for Savinho, who has been heavily linked with a move to Tottenham. A move to the Etihad would also see Neto reunite with Maresca, who worked with him at Chelsea.
However, City are not the only club circling. Saudi giants Al-Hilal have also registered an interest, although Chelsea have yet to receive a formal bid.
Maresca previously labelled Neto an “important” member of his Chelsea squad, and the Blues are therefore in no rush to let him leave despite the increasing competition for attacking places.
Neto has started 54 matches across all competitions over the last two seasons, but Morgan Rogers’ arrival could make regular football harder to guarantee under new boss Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea’s £100m valuation nevertheless represents a significant hurdle for both City and Al-Hilal. Should either club meet it, the Blues may have a major decision to make.
