Photo by Joseph Dinesh Daniel/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Photo by Joseph Dinesh Daniel/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Out of nowhere, it seems that Pedro Neto has agreed to a move away from Chelsea, potentially forcing Xabi Alonso into a position change for Mykhailo Mudryk.
It has been reported that Neto has agreed personal terms with Al Hilal for a move away from Stamford Bridge, with the Blues previously open to his sale at the right price.
Many believed there would be a new-look future for the Portugal international under Alonso in the wing-back position, following his use there during pre-season.
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Mykhailo Mudryk could move to wing-back if Chelsea sell Pedro Neto
The work-rate required as well as attacking quality to play that role looked perfect for Neto, but now could be a new way into the first team squad for Mykhailo Mudryk.
After nearly two years on the sidelines, the Chelsea players have been impressed with the fitness levels shown by the Ukraine international.
Chelsea v Juventus - Pre-Season Friendly
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He explained to the Chelsea website that he has been working hard to prove himself after not being allowed to play for 20 months.
He said: “I’d say it was like a pre-season for 18 months, so I’ve been training, I’ve been training hard. I didn’t give up and I just tried to work as hard as I could.
“I was working six days a week with proper recovery, with proper sleep schedule, food, everything. Everything was the same, just double sessions per day.
“It was to come back and to show myself again in the football world. That was my mission and I knew what I had to do for that. Only through hard work can you reach something.”
Playing at wing-back is going to take a significant amount of fitness for whoever plays the role, likely behind the reason why they have added to their squad with Marco Palestra and Pep Chavarria.
Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer are expected to play in the attacking areas, with both liking to come inside and get on the ball wherever possible.
This will need an attacking outlet to be happy to hug the touchline, with Mudryk suiting this role perfectly due to his electric pace.
Neto looked to be a perfect fit for the role, however Mudryk can provide an answer no one thought was possible at the end of last season.