By Francis Onyach - Reporter
UK, August 4, 2026 - Manchester City have stepped up their search for a new winger after making direct contact with Pedro Neto's representatives to explore the possibility of signing the Portugal international from Chelsea.
Initial discussions have now begun between City's recruitment team and Neto's camp as Enzo Maresca looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season. While no agreement has been reached, the conversations represent City's first concrete move in what could become one of the biggest Premier League transfer stories of the summer.
The transfer, however, remains dependent on Chelsea's willingness to sell and the valuation they place on one of their most talented attacking players.
City Preparing for Possible Savinho Departure
Manchester City's interest in Neto is closely linked to the future of Brazilian winger Savinho.
Reports indicate Tottenham Hotspur are pushing to sign Savinho, and City have already begun identifying replacements should the Brazilian complete a move to North London.
Rather than waiting for Savinho's future to be decided, City have moved early by opening discussions with Neto's representatives, ensuring they are well positioned if they need to enter formal negotiations with Chelsea.
The club view Neto as one of the strongest candidates capable of filling the potential vacancy on the wing.
Neto has long been admired within Premier League circles.
The Portuguese international is regarded as one of the league's most dangerous wide players when fully fit, combining explosive pace, direct dribbling and the ability to create chances from either flank.
Manchester City believe his profile fits Maresca's tactical system, particularly because of his versatility.
Neto is capable of playing on both wings, operating as a wide playmaker or even featuring in more central attacking positions when required.
His ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations is another quality City value highly as they look to maintain their attacking depth.
Although discussions have begun with the player's representatives, any move will ultimately depend on Chelsea.
The London club invested heavily to sign Neto and are not expected to let him leave without a significant financial return.
No club-to-club negotiations have yet been confirmed, meaning Manchester City must first determine whether Chelsea are prepared to entertain offers before deciding whether to submit an official bid.
Chelsea's valuation is expected to be the biggest obstacle in any negotiations.
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Manchester City are not the only club interested in Neto.
Tottenham are also understood to have included the Portugal international on their shortlist.
However, Spurs currently view Neto as a backup option, with much of their transfer strategy focused on completing a deal for Savinho.
Should Tottenham fail to land the Brazilian, attention could quickly shift towards Chelsea's winger, potentially creating competition with City for his signature.
Pedro Neto joined Chelsea after establishing himself as one of the Premier League's standout attacking players during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Despite battling injuries earlier in his career, the Portuguese winger rebuilt his reputation through a combination of creativity, pace and consistent attacking output.
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, he has added another dimension to Chelsea's attack with his ability to stretch defences and create opportunities in transition.
His versatility has allowed him to feature on either wing, making him one of the squad's most flexible attacking players.
Enzo Maresca has consistently favoured technically gifted wingers who can operate in multiple tactical roles.
Neto offers several qualities that suit Manchester City's style:
- Exceptional acceleration and pace.
- Strong one-on-one dribbling ability.
- Creativity in the final third.
- Positional versatility.
- High work rate without possession.
- Premier League experience.
Unlike many wide players, Neto is equally comfortable creating chances for teammates or attacking the goal himself, making him an attractive option for City's fluid attacking system.
The transfer remains at an early stage.
Manchester City's initial contact has focused on understanding Neto's willingness to make the move and assessing the financial conditions of a potential deal.
The next phase will depend largely on developments surrounding Savinho's future and Chelsea's position regarding the Portuguese international.