Manchester City are increasingly monitoring Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as a transfer target should Savinho depart the Etihad Stadium before the transfer window closes on September 3, according to sources cited by Football Insider.
Savinho Departure Expected as Tottenham Circle
Brazilian winger Savinho has fallen out of favour at Manchester City over the last 12 months, prompting heavy links with a move away. Former City financial advisor Stefan Borson told Football Insider in June that he wouldn’t be surprised if his former club has “already done” a deal to sell Savinho behind the scenes. Tottenham have pursued the former Girona player continually over the past year, with sources estimating a potential valuation near the £60million mark.
Borson outlined that Manchester City need to balance their squad cost ratio (SCR) standing and wage bill, making Savinho’s exit all but certain. Despite registering eight assists in the Premier League during the 2024-25 season, the wide player struggled for both form and regular game time during the subsequent campaign.
Chelsea Hold Out for £70M as City Weigh Up Neto Bid
As City anticipate Savinho’s departure, recruitment staff have readied a move for Chelsea’s Pedro Neto. Chelsea are holding out for a fee of £70million for the Portuguese international, though sources indicate City view that figure as decent value in the current market. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Neto’s potential move to the Etihad is “one to watch” in the final weeks of the window.
Neto ticks crucial boxes for the Citizens by offering proven Premier League experience, having finished the previous season with five goals and six assists in the league. While Chelsea remain reluctant to lose the former Wolverhampton Wanderers player, the West London club must raise funds for further squad additions under Xabi Alonso, with Brown noting that Chelsea are “not ruling out selling anyone” if the price is right.
Did You Know?
Pedro Neto finished the previous Premier League campaign with a combined 11 goal involvements (five goals and six assists).
Maresca Influence and Squad Upgrades
The evolving transfer landscape at Stamford Bridge involves helping manager Enzo Maresca mould the squad in his image following Pep Guardiola’s exit. Maresca has already worked with Neto previously, providing familiar tactical alignment. Brown believes that acquiring Neto would constitute an “upgrade” on some of Manchester City’s current wide options, despite the steep £70m acquisition cost which City expect to offset through their own outgoing transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Manchester City targeting Pedro Neto?
According to Football Insider sources, Manchester City view Neto as a proven Premier League replacement if Savinho departs the club before the September 3 transfer deadline.
How much is Chelsea asking for Pedro Neto?
Chelsea are holding out for a fee of £70million for the Portuguese winger, a price point City recruitment staff reportedly consider fair value.
Where is Savinho expected to go?
Tottenham have pursued Savinho continually over the last 12 months, with former City financial advisor Stefan Borson indicating a deal near £60million is effectively all-but-done to help City balance their books.