While Chelsea have gone big for wingers under Todd Boehly, few have hit the right spot at Stamford Bridge. Noni Madueke, Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling have all had their moments but have been rather underwhelming. The only wide player who gets a pass is Cole Palmer, who took the league by storm in 2023-24.
Bringing in a wide man this summer was not a priority at the Bridge but in Pedro Neto, they have moved fast to secure a player who, on his day, is a match-winner. Neto has been a prominent figure for Wolverhampton Wanderers since his arrival from Braga in 2019.
Despite struggling with hamstring injuries over the past few seasons, the Portuguese international has shown flashes of brilliance on the pitch. Last season, Neto managed to make 20 Premier League appearances, contributing two goals and nine assists despite being sidelined for significant periods.
As confirmed by Fabrizio Romano via X, Wolves have accepted a bid worth €60 million as a fixed fee, plus an additional €3 million in potential add-ons, which nearly matches the initial price tag set by the Midlands club.
The 24-year-old has agreed to personal terms with Chelsea, facilitated by his agent, Jorge Mendes. Neto is now set to undergo medical tests, with Chelsea eager to finalize the deal and integrate him into their squad ahead of the new season.
Neto’s time at Wolves has been marked by both promise and setbacks. He has played 135 matches for the club, but injuries have limited his participation, particularly since the 2020-21 campaign. His consistent performance when fit has made him a coveted player, drawing interest from top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle United.
Neto’s style of play fits into Maresca’s vision of a Chelsea team modelled after the tactics of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and Mikel Arteta at Arsenal. Both managers value players who excel in individual battles and can create opportunities out of tight situations. Neto, despite his injury history, has proven to be one of the most capable wingers in the Premier League in such roles.
Neto is expected to add depth to Chelsea’s wide options, joining the likes of Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Raheem Sterling. His arrival would mark Chelsea’s ninth signing of the summer, further strengthening a squad that has seen significant investments.
