Arsenal ‘ready to move’ for gettable Wolves star after Arteta greenlights fresh bid
Arsenal are preparing a new bid for Wolves winger Pedro Neto after installing him as one of their top targets last year, according to the latest reports.
Neto was the subject of serious interest from Arsenal last summer. However, Wolves managed to keep hold of the Portugal international after setting a high asking price. This year, though, Arsenal are fancying their chances of getting a better deal.
According to a report from Football Transfers, Arsenal are reviving their interest in Neto. Since he has only started 10 Premier League matches this season either side of an ankle injury, they believe he might be available for a lower sum than last year.
It is one of Arsenal’s priorities in the upcoming transfer window to find more cover for Bukyo Saka on the right wing. As a left footer, that is also Neto’s preferred position, although he can play on either flank.
Therefore, he could be a useful rotation option to Saka. With that in mind, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given his approval to a new approach for Neto, the report claims.
The 23-year-old is still under contract at Molineux until 2027. However, Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui might not stand in Neto’s way if it means he would be able to reinvest in his own signings.
Neto is yet to complete 90 minutes in a match since Lopetegui took charge, although in fairness that timeframe does align with when he has been in the process of getting back to full fitness.
Now, Neto is said to be ‘flattered’ by Arsenal’s interest in him, especially because they still have faith in him after his spells on the sidelines.
Arsenal eye Pedro Neto amid need for greater depth
Arsenal have almost mathematically confirmed Champions League qualification for next season. Therefore, they will need to increase their squad depth.
Out wide, they can call upon Gabriel Martinelli and January addition Leandro Trossard on the left. On the right, though, Saka’s only competition has been Reiss Nelson, who is due to leave when his contract expires at the end of the season.
With that in mind, they will need more competition for Saka, who has had to play 42 times between the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup this season.
Neto might be their man if the price has fallen as much as they suspect it might have. His overall record for Wolves includes 11 goals and 12 assists from 107 appearances.
Arsenal could theoretically offer the former Braga and Lazio man the next step in his career. They would enable him to link up with compatriot Fabio Vieira in attacking midfield if the 22-year-old’s own gametime at the Emirates Stadium increases.
But Arsenal will have to keep their options open as they seek reliable cover on the right-hand side. It will also be important for them to convince some of their more highly-rated targets that they would have a big enough place in their plans in conjunction with Saka.
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