Wolves boss Gary O’Neil has hit back at suggestions over a potential exit for star winger Pedro Neto heading into the summer transfer window.
Tottenham and Arsenal continue to be linked with a transfer for Pedro Neto, following an impressive showing this season. The 23-year-old has two goals and nine assists to his name in the Premier League so far this campaign.
It comes after years of speculation surrounding Neto and a big move in the transfer market, though it has never quite materialised. There have been question marks surrounding the fitness of the winger, following some big injuries.
However, even with a slight knock during the season, Neto has continued to show his ability for the Midlands outfit. It has led to more recent interest from the likes of Tottenham, with both the present and the future in mind.
Pedro Neto transfer stance
Despite those links with a possible exit in the summer transfer window, Wolves boss O’Neil has looked to shut down any talk surrounding it. Speaking after his side’s victory over Tottenham, he said, via the Standard: “His [Neto’s] strengths are incredibly strong. His athleticism and his pace are excellent. His quality on the ball or when he is trying to find a pass at the end of it is excellent.
“I am still working really hard on improving certain bits of him, which I think he needs to improve in my opinion. He knows that, we have spoken about that already… about how much he can do for the team… out of possession stuff and still some understanding with the ball.
“He knows we want to improve him. It would be really lazy of me to say ‘Oh he is fantastic’ and let him get on with it and see how well he does. I still want to push him and see how well he does. I still want to push him and get him as close to perfect as a wide player as we can.
“I have been asked a few times about the summer already. I am not interested in discussing Pedro Neto leaving the football club. He is a fantastic player that we spent a lot of money on and have worked very hard on.
“As far as I am concerned we do not want to lose our best players. We have a long way to go yet this season and hopefully he stays with us.”
Tottenham transfer verdict
So, while O’Neil has certainly looked to stop any discussions of an exit, that’s not to say one may not still occur. The financial side of the football club will likely play a role in any summer business, leaving the fate of Neto in the air.
As for whether Tottenham should make a move, that comes down to a few key areas of consideration. The monetary aspect would have to suit their budget and the valuation they would place on a player such as Neto.
The other consideration is how the Portuguese winger would fit into Ange Postecoglou‘s system. Neto’s versatility would certainly check one of those boxes, while his dribbling and one-on-one ability would bring in a much-needed skillset lacking from the current forward line.
It remains to be seen if Tottenham will make their move, regardless of O’Neil’s comments, but it’s a deal that could certainly improve their forward options.
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