Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly emerged as one of the two leading contenders to sign Chelsea winger Pedro Neto this summer, with Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal also showing strong interest in the Portugal international.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the race for Neto’s signature is currently developing into a two-way battle between Spurs and Al Hilal should the 26-year-old leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes.
Neto only joined Chelsea from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2024 in a deal worth around £54 million, but his future in west London has already become the subject of speculation. Despite showing flashes of his quality, the winger has struggled to establish himself as an undisputed starter, opening the door for a potential move.
For Tottenham, Neto represents an attractive option as Roberto De Zerbi looks to completely reshape his attacking department. Spurs have endured back-to-back 17th-place finishes in the Premier League and are determined to give their new head coach a squad capable of competing at a much higher level.
However, Neto is not currently Tottenham’s first-choice winger target. Their main priority remains Manchester City star Savinho, with the North London club reportedly working on a potential deal for the Brazilian.
Interestingly, Tottenham could potentially negotiate a double deal with Manchester City, with Omar Marmoush also being considered as part of their ambitious plans to rebuild the attack. Bringing in both players would represent a major statement of intent from Spurs.
When it comes to Neto, however, Chelsea are expected to demand a substantial transfer fee. The Blues reportedly value the winger at around £100 million, although Romano believes the eventual asking price could fall below that figure.
Speaking on GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness podcast, Romano explained that Tottenham and Al Hilal are currently the two clubs to watch for Neto. He also revealed that Manchester City explored the possibility of signing the player but ultimately decided against pursuing a deal because of Chelsea’s valuation.
“It’s between Spurs and Al Hilal in this moment for Pedro Neto,” Romano explained, while stressing that Savinho remains Tottenham’s priority.
Al Hilal have already made contact with Neto’s representatives and are understood to be seriously considering a move for the former Wolves attacker. Their financial power could make them a significant competitor for Tottenham if Chelsea lower their asking price.
Manchester City, meanwhile, had also spoken to Neto’s agent several weeks ago. The Premier League champions considered him as a possible alternative should Savinho leave the Etihad Stadium for Tottenham. However, City were reportedly unwilling to meet Chelsea’s £100 million valuation.
For Spurs, the remaining weeks of the transfer window could therefore be crucial. The club made an impressive early start to its summer recruitment, bringing in several new faces, but transfer activity has slowed recently.
Strengthening the attack is now regarded as one of the biggest priorities. De Zerbi wants greater pace, creativity and goals in the final third, and the potential arrival of players such as Savinho, Marmoush or Neto could dramatically change the complexion of the team.
A potential move for Marmoush would give Tottenham another option through the centre, competing with Dominic Solanke and Richarlison for the striker role. Savinho, meanwhile, could provide explosive pace and creativity from the flank.
Mohammed Kudus could also become an important part of De Zerbi’s plans after missing much of the second half of last season because of injury. The Ghanaian possesses the versatility to operate from either side and could thrive in a more attack-minded system.
If Tottenham were able to complete deals for Savinho and Marmoush, De Zerbi could potentially have a formidable attacking trio at his disposal, with Kudus, Marmoush and Savinho forming the front line.
Pedro Neto, meanwhile, remains another high-profile option, although Tottenham will have to decide whether he is worth pursuing at Chelsea’s huge valuation.
With Al Hilal also pushing for the winger, the battle for Neto could become one of the more intriguing transfer stories to follow as Tottenham attempt to build a completely different side under De Zerbi.
