Chelsea Demands £100 Million for Pedro Neto Amid Al-Hilal Personal Terms Agreement
Chelsea has raised the asking price for Pedro Neto to an astonishing £100 million after Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal reportedly agreed on personal terms with the Portuguese winger. This development complicates the pursuit by Premier League giants Manchester City and Arsenal, who have long been interested in the 26-year-old attacker.
Stamford Bridge Increases Valuation
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea's management now demands close to nine figures for Neto, who joined the Blues from Wolves for £54 million in 2024. The surge in his valuation follows recent market trends where clubs like Real Madrid paid up to £120 million for Yan Diomande, and Liverpool chased Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola at similarly high fees.
Al-Hilal Leads Transfer Race After Agreeing Terms
While Manchester City and Arsenal have shown strong interest, it is Al-Hilal who have taken the most decisive step. Reports indicate Neto has accepted personal terms with the Riyadh-based club. They are prepared to offer about €60 million (£51 million), which remains below Chelsea’s current demand.
The player's representatives have not commented publicly on the Middle East links yet. Chelsea faces pressure to make swift decisions if they intend to sell, as the transfer window deadline approaches and replacement options remain limited.
Premier League Clubs Face Transfer Challenges
New Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has identified Neto as a key target to boost attacking options at the Etihad Stadium. Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen his wings but may struggle to meet Chelsea's steep price, causing the Gunners to prioritize defensive signings instead.
The financial power of the Saudi Pro League continues to disrupt European clubs’ plans, leaving both English teams in a state of uncertainty regarding Neto's future.
Neto's Role in Chelsea's Pre-Season
Despite transfer rumors, Neto played a significant part in Chelsea’s final pre-season game, a 3-1 win over Real Sociedad. Manager Xabi Alonso described the match as a valuable preparation, noting that some players were experiencing their first and last games before the season starts.
"It was a very good last preparation game. For some players it was the first one and the last one. For us, there were some good things, some things we can improve. It’s normal at this moment for some players. It was great to have all the team together," Alonso said after the match.
As the transfer window narrows, Chelsea continues to juggle squad adjustments and financial concerns. Besides Neto, the club faces interest in Tosin Adarabioyo and values striker Nicolas Jackson around £65 million.
