Arsenal’s pursuit of Wolves winger Pedro Neto has come to an end after Chelsea secured a surprise £54m deal for the Portuguese forward. Neto, who had been a long-term target for the Gunners, signed a seven-year contract with the Blues, leaving Mikel Arteta in search of alternative options to strengthen his attacking options.
Neto’s arrival at Chelsea has sparked discussions about the potential impact he could have had at Arsenal. Former Arsenal player Paul Merson believes that Neto would have been an “incredible” signing for the Gunners, stating that he could have taken some of the workload off Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Merson suggests that Neto’s style of play would have fit well with Arsenal’s approach, which focuses on utilizing wide players.
Despite missing out on Neto, Arsenal is still determined to bolster their attacking options. Arteta is keen to bring in a new winger who can either cover for Saka on the right or challenge Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left. One player who has caught Arteta’s attention is Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. The 22-year-old winger impressed during Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign and continues to be linked with Barcelona. However, Williams is expected to remain at Bilbao for another season before potentially making a big-money move next summer.
While Arteta is eager to sign a new winger, his priority remains strengthening the midfield. Arsenal is closing in on a deal to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, a move that could provide the midfield stability the team needs. The Gunners have already secured the services of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna this summer. Additionally, there may still be a chance for Arsenal to bring in a striker to provide cover and competition for Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Overall, Arsenal’s pursuit of Pedro Neto may have come to a disappointing end, but it has highlighted the club’s determination to strengthen their attacking options. While Neto would have been a significant addition, the Gunners are now turning their attention to other potential targets, with Nico Williams and Mikel Merino on their radar. The upcoming transfer window’s final week will be crucial for Arsenal as they look to secure the signings that will enhance their squad for the upcoming season.