Chelsea ‘s valuation of an important player may raise eyebrows when the demand goes over nine figures particularly when he is not mentioned in the same breath as a Colmer Palmer, Enzo Fernandez or a Moises Caicedo.
The Blues could be set for a major windfall if Pedro Neto leaves Stamford Bridge this summer, with the transfer chiefs reportedly placing a valuation of close to £100 million on the Portugal international.
That inflated price tag for a player Chelsea signed for £54million two years ago may seem surprising, particularly given that he has yet to set Stamford Bridge alight with his performances or consistently get supporters off their seats with his play.
Perhaps it is the growing interest in his services that has prompted Chelsea to drive up his valuation. The Portuguese winger has attracted interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, while Premier League rivals Tottenham and Manchester City are also keeping a close eye on his situation.
His future has become an intriguing talking point under new head coach Xabi Alonso. Chelsea are not actively looking to sell the 26-year-old and are yet to receive a formal offer, but is Pedro Neto worth £100million?
Is Pedro Neto worth the £100m price tag?
The short answer is no. The valuation may initially appear ambitious, particularly given that Chelsea paid almost half that amount just two years ago. But who can blame the Blues for setting such a price if they can find a club willing to meet their asking figure? It would represent an enormous return on their investment.
He also offers something different within Xabi Alonso’s system, with the versatility to operate as a potential left wing-back while also providing an option on the right wing should the system be altered. That valuation will meet his value and importance within the 25-man Premier League squad.
However, given the current transfer market and the premium placed on proven, high-level wingers, you could argue that Chelsea’s valuation is not quite as far-fetched as it may initially seem. Morgan Rogers commanded a fee of around £117million, while Enzo Fernandez is valued at £120million, and not a penny less.
It is clear Chelsea's valuation has reportedly been influenced by the inflated market for elite wingers, with significant fees being demanded for wide players across Europe. And that you cannot blame them. Yan Diomande, who has very little top-flight experience, went to Real Madrid for €125M and Savinho is rumoured to be going to Tottenham for potentially £80M. That has allowed the Blues to take a firm stance rather than being forced into a sale.
Whether we see the Portuguese winger depart Chelsea this summer remains to be seen, but there is no doubt the Blues would be delighted if their £120million valuation is met.
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