Arsenal have been looking for a wide forward in the ongoing summer transfer window, and Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Pedro Neto has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium. As Gunners ponder the possibilities of bringing the Portuguese ace to the carpet, Wolves manager Gary O’Neil has acknowledged that his star player could depart Molineux Stadium if a substantial offer arrives the Wanderers way.
Wolves boss Gary O’Neil open to Pedro Neto sale
Neto has been subject to brilliance in the recently concluded season despite dealing with multiple injuries. Despite missing 18 games owing to hamstring issues in the last season, the player contributed 14 goals.
The financial situation at Wolves makes Neto’s exit a possible outcome, though the £40 million sale of Max Kilman to West Ham earlier this summer has taken the edge off some pressure.
O’Neil brought to light the hard-to-accept realities on the E&S podcast as he addressed the Neto situation while expressing hope that the 24-year-old stays with the Wolves next season.
“I know how good he is, and I know how well he would do at a big club. Obviously, I want our team here to be unbelievably successful, so I’m hoping that he stays,” O’Neil said.
“I think so. There’s a chance he stays. There’s nothing going on at this moment from anybody. He’s in a good spot. I’ve spoken to him about how we’re going to play, how it suits him, and what a big part he’ll play in it. But of course, we’re all grown-ups while you’re having those conversations. If a massive bid comes from a top club, then no one is going to stand in Pedro’s way.
“I’m confident that he will be here because we haven’t really had anything that makes the club think that he won’t be. But of course, a lot of business can be done late.”
Arteta keen on Neto as Williams deal stalls
Neto has been a potential target at Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool as well.
Wolves are holding on to a possible £60 million fee for Neto and are unlikely to entertain any bargain on the valuation as they look to close a club-record fee if any potential sale materializes.
Mikel Arteta hugely admires the player and could fortify the Gunners interest in signing the Portuguese winger as a potential deal for Nico Williams, who looks unlikely this summer. The fee shouldn’t be a problem for Arsenal; however, it is to be seen if the club pursues him or looks for alternative options.
