Al-Hilal talks to sign Pedro Neto hit an impasse

Chelsea will entertain bids to part ways with 26-year-old Portuguese international Pedro Neto in the final days of the summer transfer window.

According to an update from Ben Jacobs, Pedro Neto remains the subject of interest from Al-Hilal. The Saudi Pro League giants are eager to bolster their offensive unit by signing a versatile attacker in the coming days, and they have their sights set on the 26-year-old Chelsea winger.

However, per Ban Jacobs, Chelsea’s decision to slap a price tag of £100 million on Neto has “resulted in no breakthrough in talks” between the two clubs. Meanwhile, a report by Pete O’Rourke on Football Insider has revealed that the Blues are “ready to accept permanent offers” for the player in the closing stages of the ongoing transfer window amid his links with Arsenal and Manchester City.

How has Pedro Neto fared at Chelsea?

Pedro Neto has experienced mixed fortunes since joining Chelsea from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal worth £54 million in August 2024. The 26-year-old attacker’s creative output in the final third has helped him become an asset for the West London club. However, he has struggled with a few fitness issues while being prone to bouts of inconsistency.

Nevertheless, Neto was among the most productive players for Chelsea last term, scoring ten goals and providing ten assists in 52 appearances across all competitions. Meanwhile, the Portuguese winger’s progress has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, though an adventure in the Saudi Pro League may be on the cards.

La Liga adventure beckons?

Al-Hilal’s interest in Pedro Neto is logical. While the big-spending Saudi giants have already bolstered their attack by signing Crysencio Summerville from West Ham United, they want new wingers on both flanks and have thus pursued several wide attackers in the last few weeks. They have already faced rejection from Iliman Ndiaye, which has forced the club to refocus on other targets, with Neto emerging as a top option.

As for Arsenal, the Gunners are in the market for a left-sided attacker, as Gabriel Martinelli faces an uncertain future at the Emirates. With Arsenal ready to sell the Brazilian, Neto has emerged as a viable target. Meanwhile, Manchester City will pursue a winger, as Savinho is on the verge of joining Tottenham Hotspur. So, they have set their sights on Neto to replace the youngster.

Meanwhile, recent reports have suggested that the Chelsea winger is ready to join Al-Hilal, with personal terms understood to not pose an issue. However, unless the West London club’s asking price reduces, a deal may not materialise, as the Portuguese international’s suitors are reluctant to pay £100 million to secure his services.

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