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Posted on February 13, 2026 8:00 pm | Updated on February 13, 2026 2:19 pm
Chelsea have got it all wrong after taking a surprising £70m stance on future of Pedro Neto. The club is heading into a huge summer window where exits could shape the next era as much as new signings. Among the names under the spotlight is Pedro Neto. Reports of strong interest from Atletico Madrid have surfaced, but Chelsea seem reluctant to cash in. That decision could come back to haunt them if the winger’s form does not improve.
Poor Form Of Pedro Neto Raise Serious Questions
There is no denying the talent Neto brings when fully fit. Among **Chelsea**’s senior wide options, he remains the most complete performer in the squad. Although, Estevao may carry huge potential, and Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho have promise. But, Neto should be the one setting the standard. The problem is that this season has told a different story. As per reports, Neto’s form is worrying the club at the moment.
Since Liam Rosenior stepped in, several players have found new rhythm. Joao Pedro looks sharper and more decisive. Wesley Fofana has added consistency to his game. Robert Sanchez has responded well after difficult moments earlier in the season. Cole Palmer has exploded with nine goals and assists in just six appearances under the new boss. Given that, confidence is flowing through much of the squad.
However, Neto’s spark has faded. His influence in matches has dipped. He no longer looks central to the manager’s attacking plans. When a new coach arrives, every player gets a new chance. Some grab it with both hands, while others don’t make the most of it. At the moment, Neto is failing to make the impact with the Blues.
£70m Stance Of Chelsea Looks Risky
Reports of a £70m approach from Atletico Madrid have added fuel to the debate. Early rumours suggested Chelsea might be open to listening. Now, reports claim the club has no desire to sell. Holding firm may sound strong, but it could hurt them in the future.
Neto is 25 and should be entering his peak years. But, the early signs under Rosenior hint that he may not fully fit the system. Meanwhile, Estevao is only going to improve with experience. Geovany Quenda has already been confirmed and will arrive in the summer. His development in Portugal suggests he could become a major attacking weapon.
In addition, Gittens and Garnacho are younger and have time on their side. If a bid arrives that exceeds the £54m Chelsea originally paid, it represents smart business. Football does not wait for anyone and value today can disappear tomorrow. Refusing to make sell now could mean watching Neto’s price drop over the next year if his minutes drop and his output stalls.
Selling at the right time is as important as buying well. Chelsea have been criticised for heavy spending in recent seasons. This is a moment for the Blues to show clarity.
Contract Length Gives Power But Also Pressure
When Neto signed from Wolves in 2024, he agreed to a seven-year contract. That leaves five years remaining, which gives the Premier League club strong control over transfer talks.
But, contracts do not guarantee rising market value of a player. They only offer leverage if the player performs. More attacking options are arriving and competition is increasing at Stamford Bridge. With that, Neto’s role could shrink unless he rediscovers top form quickly.
There is also a bigger picture to consider. If Atletico’s interest is genuine, a sale could open doors elsewhere. Chelsea continue to be linked with elite attacking targets, including World Cup winner Julian Alvarez. Given that, funding such big moves requires tough calls. Right now, refusing to listen to serious offers for Pedro Neto feels less like confidence and more like a risk.
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