Arsenal have reportedly identified Pedro Neto as a possible alternative for Emiliano Buendia, whose price tag has been deemed as prohibitive.
According to a report by Daily Express, Pedro Neto is the subject of interest from Arsenal over a possible move in the January transfer window. The Portuguese international is viewed as an alternative for Emiliano Buendia, who pursuit has been ceded due to his excessive asking price.
Pedro Neto has long been regarded as one of the most promising young wingers emanating out of Portugal in recent years. The 20-year-old has stepped up remarkably since joining Wolves from SC Braga in the summer of 2019, having also gone on to break into the Portuguese national side last year.
After being eased into the thick of things last season, Neto has cemented his place in the side this season, with 4 goals and 2 assists in 18 Premier League appearances. His progress has been duly noted by several clubs, with Arsenal among those that have their sights set on him.
The Gunners are in the market for a player who can bolster their creative ranks while also adding to the goals tally. Mesut Ozil’s ouster from the first-team squad has adversely affected their creativity, which was once again evident in the goalless draw that Arsenal played out with Crystal Palace on Thursday.
While Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka have stepped up remarkably, the struggles of Willian and Nicolas Pepe have prompted Arsenal to enter the market for a wide option who can bolster the creative side of things as well. To that end, Emiliano Buendia has been heavily linked with a winter move to the Emirates.
However, with Norwich City slapping a £40 million price tag on the Argentine, Arsenal are having to withdraw their interest in him. As a result, several alternatives have been identified including Julian Draxler, with Pedro Neto on their radar as well. With the 20-year-old already settled in the Premier League, he could make an instant impact at Arsenal, despite his lack of experience.
However, the report does not mention whether the north Londoners are going to launch the offensive for the Portuguese international, or if the other alternatives take precedence. For now, the youngster appears to be a target for Arsenal and a January move might be on the cards.
