Manchester City Pursues Pedro Neto Reunion Under Enzo Maresca's Management

Manchester City has entered negotiations for Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as manager Enzo Maresca pursues a reunion with the Portuguese international. Chelsea have set a £70 million valuation on the 26-year-old, though the club remains reluctant to sell despite interest from multiple European clubs.

Maresca's Return to Manchester City

Enzo Maresca recently took over as Manchester City manager following Pep Guardiola's tenure. The Italian coach previously worked with Neto during his time at Chelsea and views the winger as an ideal fit for his tactical system. Maresca has already begun reshaping the City squad, securing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a British transfer record of £116 million and acquiring Jeremy Monga from Leicester City.

Transfer Competition and Chelsea's Position

Manchester City face competition from Serie A side AC Milan, who have positioned Neto at the top of their transfer wishlist. Milan's interest hinges on the potential departure of Rafael Leao, with the Italian club hoping to use proceeds from that sale to fund a move for Neto. Chelsea sources have described the winger as "highly, highly valued" and indicated no serious negotiations have taken place with any club this summer. The Blues have not actively explored Neto's departure and would only consider a sale if an exceptionally substantial offer materialized.

Neto himself has been informed of interest from both Manchester City and AC Milan and remains open to either proposal. However, the player is content to wait and observe developments rather than force an exit. His agent, Jorge Mendes, has also offered the winger to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, though this destination remains unrealistic given Neto's preference to remain competing at the highest level of European football.

Chelsea's Financial Situation

Chelsea's stance on Neto sales may shift depending on their financial needs before the September 1 transfer deadline. The club has already committed £117 million to signing Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa and continues active recruitment in other areas. The Blues have agreed a £31 million deal with Como for defender Trevoh Chalobah and are exploring multiple other exits to balance their books. Neto made 30 league starts for Chelsea last season and represents a significant asset in their squad planning.