Chelsea Announce Signing of Pedro Neto in £54m Deal

Chelsea have officially confirmed the signing of Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the deal worth a reported £54 million, including add-ons. The announcement was made in a surprising fashion during half-time of Chelsea’s pre-season friendly against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge on August 11, 2024.

The 24-year-old winger has long been regarded as one of the most promising talents in the Premier League, and his move to Chelsea marks a significant step in his career. Neto expressed his excitement about the transfer, stating, “I feel really grateful to have joined this club. I have worked really hard in my career to be here and I’m looking forward to getting on the pitch with this shirt.”

Pedro Neto began his professional journey at Braga in Portugal before moving to Lazio on loan as a teenager. However, it was his 2019 transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers that truly put him on the map. Over the course of his time with Wolves, Neto made 135 appearances, playing a crucial role in the club’s remarkable seventh-place finish in the Premier League and their run to the quarter-finals of the Europa League during his debut season.

Neto ‘s career

Despite his undeniable talent, Neto’s career has been plagued by injuries, including a long-term knee injury and several other significant setbacks. Most recently, he battled a hamstring problem but recovered in time to represent Portugal at Euro 2024. His injury history may raise concerns among Chelsea fans, but his potential impact on the pitch is undeniable.

Neto becomes Chelsea’s ninth signing of the summer, joining a squad that has undergone significant changes under the guidance of the club’s sporting department. At 24, he is one of the more experienced players among the new arrivals, adding a blend of youth and experience to the squad.

The Portuguese international is expected to begin training with his new teammates in the coming days, and he could make his Chelsea debut when the Blues kick off their 2024/25 Premier League campaign against reigning champions Manchester City on August 18. As Chelsea continue to build their squad for the future, the addition of Pedro Neto could prove to be a key move in their quest for domestic and European success.