Arsenal have reportedly been urged to consider a move for Chelsea winger Pedro Neto after missing out on a deal for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
The Gunners had been linked with a move for Vinicius as they looked to strengthen their attacking options, but a deal for the Brazil international has failed to materialise. Attention has subsequently turned towards alternative targets, with former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere naming Neto as a potential solution.
Neto is understood to be attracting interest from Manchester City, with the Premier League champions also monitoring the Portugal international. Arsenal could now be encouraged to enter the race for a player who is already familiar with English football and has established himself at the highest level.
Aliadiere believes ARSENAL should consider more cost-effective options rather than continuing to pursue marquee names at the top end of the transfer market. The former Gunners forward identified Neto as a ready-made alternative who could provide immediate competition and quality in wide areas
‘I just think: Yes, we’re champions, yes, we’ve made a lot of money. But at some point, you’ve got to balance the books as well,’ Aliadiere told Metro via Football Betting.
‘When you think about the money that Arsenal already spent after Guimaraes’ arrival, what we’ve spent last year, plus we’ve only had Trossard leaving for money.
‘Only the club will know financially where they are, but will they be able to go and spend 150 million on a new winger, or is it maybe financially more reasonable to go for a lower option?’
Aliadiere continued: ‘Pedro Neto could be a great option. He’s played in the Premier League for many years, is established, knows the league, a very, very good player.
‘And don’t forget, we’ve already signed a left winger with Christos Tzolis. He’s a left winger, so you’re just adding top talent.
‘We’ve spent 40million. ‘You can’t just spend 40 million and then just stick him on the bench and never play him. So I think you’ve got to keep every option open and see what is best financially for the club.’
Any ARSENAL pursuit, however, would likely depend on CHELSEA’s willingness to listen to offers for a player who remains part of their plans. The Blues would also have to weigh up the benefits of selling to a direct Premier League rival.
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