Neto to City: Maresca's Chelsea reunion takes shape as 'big-money' bid looms

Maresca's Chelsea connection could prove decisive in Neto pursuit

Manchester City's interest in Pedro Neto is being driven from the top, with Enzo Maresca the man believed to be pulling the strings. The City boss knows the Chelsea winger intimately from their time together at Stamford Bridge, and that familiarity appears to be shaping the club's thinking this summer.

According to former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, speaking to Football Insider, there is a "real possibility" the 26-year-old ends up at the Etihad, with a "big-money" deal on the cards. Brown's track record on transfer matters lends his words some weight, even if he is no longer working in the game.

Neto has been a key figure for Chelsea since arriving from Wolves back in 2024, but his campaign last season was a mixed bag. Ten goals and ten assists in 52 appearances across all competitions is hardly a poor return, yet a string of inconsistent displays raised questions about his reliability at the highest level. Portuguese media were particularly scathing about his World Cup performances, with his half-time withdrawal against Uzbekistan singled out for criticism back in June.

Xabi Alonso, now in charge at Chelsea, is said to view Neto as part of his plans for the new season. But with a significant overhaul of the squad already underway, the club have stopped short of ruling out exits. If Neto does depart, Chelsea would likely move for a replacement, though City are confident that will not stand in the way of their pursuit.

There is a "real possibility" Neto could make the move to Man City, with a "big-money" deal on the cards.

Brown's earlier comments from last season add another layer to the story. Back then, he told Football Insider that Chelsea hoped to keep hold of Neto despite interest from Barcelona, with Maresca determined not to lose him. Now the same manager is reportedly keen to bring him to Manchester, which rather sums up the fluid nature of these situations.

Chelsea's squad depth is worth noting here. With Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Estevao, Jamie Gittens and Geovany Quenda all competing for wide berths, Neto is far from indispensable. That depth could work in City's favour if they decide to push ahead with a formal offer.

Whether this materialises into an actual bid remains to be seen, but the pieces are in place for a significant transfer saga before the window closes.