Pedro Neto in action for Chelsea, with Enzo Maresca in a circular inset
Pedro Neto in action for Chelsea, with Enzo Maresca in a circular inset
The 26-year-old has been a key player for the Blues since his arrival from Wolves in 2024, but they could be open to his departure at the right price.
Enzo Maresca is believed to be the architect behind Man City's pursuit, having worked closely with the Portugal international during his time at Stamford Bridge.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that there is a "real possibility" Neto could make the move to Man City, with a "big-money" deal on the cards.
The winger is expected to be part of Xabi Alonso's plans for the new season, but with a significant overhaul of his squad already underway, no exits have been ruled out.
Should Neto leave Chelsea this summer, they will likely move to sign a replacement, but Man City are confident that will not be a barrier in their pursuit.
Could Man City make a move to sign Pedro Neto?
Brown told Football Insider early last season that Chelsea hoped to keep hold of Neto despite interest from Barcelona, with Maresca determined not to lose him.
Now, the boss is eyeing a reunion with the winger, with new management at Stamford Bridge believed to be more open to the idea of his big-money departure.
Despite being well-stocked with wide options, there is a feeling that Neto would be an upgrade on his competition at Man City, and they could now push to do a deal.
"Pedro Neto to Man City could be an interestesting one to watch," Brown told Football Insider.
"I don't think Chelsea are ruling out selling anybody this summer, if a big-money offer comes in, then I expect they will be prepared to let Neto or anybody else leave.
"Obviously it would have to be the right deal for them, and I think he's a top player so they will be reluctant to lose him, but it's something they could be open to.
"It's no surprise Man City are interested, there's been suggestions for a while that Enzo Maresca will want to reunite with at least one of his former players.
"He will be the key to this move, if Maresca really wants him and can convince Neto to make the switch, then there is a real possibility they could get it over the line.
"He's an upgrade on some of the options Man City have already got, so from their point of view, he would be a good signing, and for Chelsea, it's an opportunity to raise funds."
Why would Chelsea be open to letting Neto go?
Alongside Man City's pursuit of Neto, there is a growing feeling he could be allowed to leave Chelsea, despite playing a key role in their plans over the last couple of seasons.
The 26-year-old scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions last season, but a number of inconsistent displays had led to concerns.
Meanwhile, Football Insider reported in June that Portuguese media had been highly critical of Neto's performances at the World Cup, notably after his half-time withdrawal against Uzbekistan.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have an extremely deep squad at their disposal, with the likes of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Estevao, Jamie Gittens and Geovany Quenda among their wide options.
A deep squad, concerns about his consistency, and the desire to raise funds through player sales, could see Neto pushed out of Stamford Bridge in the near future.