One thing I have learned as a Chelsea fan is that you should never ignore transfer rumours. Sometimes they disappear after a few days, while other times they suddenly become reality. The latest rumour linking Pedro Neto with Manchester City is one that truly caught my attention.
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According to reports, City are considering a move for the Portuguese winger, while Chelsea are willing to listen to offers if the price is around £70 million. When I first saw the news, my reaction was mixed.
On one hand, £70 million is a huge amount of money. If Chelsea can make a profit on a player they signed not too long ago, many people would say it's smart business. Modern football is as much about making the right financial decisions as it is about winning trophies.
But football is not only about balancing the books.
I personally don't think we have seen the best of Pedro Neto in a Chelsea shirt yet. Injuries have slowed him down over the last couple of seasons, and it's difficult for any player to build confidence when they can't stay fit for long. Even so, whenever he gets on the pitch, you can still see flashes of the quality that convinced Chelsea to sign him in the first place from Wolverton.
He's quick, fearless, and never seems afraid to run directly at defenders. Those are qualities every team needs, especially in the Premier League where one moment of pace or skill can completely change a game.
If Manchester City are truly interested, it also tells me something. Enzo Maresca has previously worked with him at Chelsea and he is someone he knows very well. That alone shows the level of respect Neto has earned despite his injury struggles.
From Chelsea's point of view, though, selling him now could be a gamble. We have seen too many players leave Stamford Bridge only to become stars elsewhere. I honestly would not want to watch Neto flourish in City's colours while Chelsea fans are left wondering what could have been.
Of course, every player has a price, and if Chelsea believe the money can be reinvested to strengthen other areas of the squad, I can understand why they would consider it. Still, I'd rather see Neto stay, remain injury-free, and finally enjoy a full season to show everyone what he is capable of.
For now, it's only speculation, and there is still plenty of time before anything becomes official. Until then, I'll be hoping this is one rumour that doesn't turn into reality.
As a Chelsea fan, I'd rather keep Pedro Neto than sell him this summer. Sometimes patience pays off, and I believe he still has a lot to offer the club if given the chance.
What about you? If Manchester City really submit a £70 million bid, would you accept it or keep Neto at Chelsea?
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