Barcelona Add Chelsea £70m Star to Summer Transfer Shortlist

The summer transfer window may still be months away, but the early groundwork for potential deals is already underway across Europe. One player attracting growing attention is Pedro Neto, with Spanish giants FC Barcelona reportedly keeping a close eye on the Chelsea winger ahead of a possible move.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s sporting department has added Neto to a shortlist of attacking targets for the next transfer window. The Portuguese international has impressed scouts with his pace, creativity and ability to play in multiple attacking roles, making him an attractive option if Barcelona decide to strengthen their wide areas.

Barcelona assessing attacking options

The Catalan club are believed to be planning a few key additions as they look to strengthen their squad under manager Hansi Flick. Barcelona’s priority positions include a centre-forward, a centre-back and potentially another winger.

On the wings, Barcelona already have two clear starters in Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, both of whom have been important figures in the team’s attacking system this season. However, questions remain about the depth behind them.

Barcelona have experimented with different options, but the backup roles on the flanks are still not fully settled. One player who has been part of that rotation is Marcus Rashford, who is currently spending time with the club on loan. Statistically, Rashford has produced respectable numbers and there is reportedly an option to sign him permanently for around €30 million.

Despite that possibility, Barcelona’s hierarchy want to see more consistent performances before committing to a long-term deal. The final weeks of the season are expected to play a key role in determining Rashford’s future.

At the other end of the spectrum is highly rated youngster Roony Bardghji, who has shown flashes of promise but is still early in his development. While the club believes in his potential, they recognise he may need time before becoming a regular starter at the highest level.

Why Pedro Neto appeals to Barcelona

This uncertainty is where Pedro Neto enters the picture.

Barcelona’s scouting reports on the 26-year-old have reportedly been very positive. Neto is viewed as a dynamic attacking player who can stretch defences with his speed and direct running.

One of his biggest strengths is versatility. Unlike many wingers who prefer a single side, Neto is comfortable playing on both flanks. He can operate on the right wing, cut in from the left, and has even occasionally been used as a central attacker or false nine.

That flexibility is particularly attractive to Barcelona, where tactical systems often require wide players to rotate positions and adapt during matches.

Neto’s ability to both create and score goals has also caught attention. Over the past few seasons he has developed a reputation as a “game-changer” capable of turning matches with moments of individual brilliance.

Chelsea situation adds intrigue

Neto only joined Chelsea in 2024 in a deal worth around €60 million, but competition for places in the squad is fierce.

The London club has assembled a large group of attacking talents, including highly rated youngster Estevao Willian on the right wing, while players such as Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens often occupy roles on the left side of the attack.

With so many attacking options available, regular starting opportunities can be difficult to secure. That situation could open the door for potential interest from other clubs if Neto becomes available.

The Portuguese forward also brings international experience, having earned over 20 appearances for Portugal national football team. His performances at both club and international level have contributed to his reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting wide players.

Agent connections could play a role

Another factor that could influence any potential move is Neto’s agent, Jorge Mendes.

Mendes is one of the most powerful figures in football transfers and has long-standing relationships with Barcelona officials. He is known to have strong links with the club’s sporting leadership, including sporting director Deco.

Because of those connections, communication between Neto’s camp and Barcelona would likely be straightforward if interest develops into something more serious.

However, it is important to note that at this stage there have been no formal negotiations. Reports suggest Barcelona are simply monitoring the situation and evaluating whether Neto could fit into their future plans.

Financial obstacles remain

Even if Barcelona decide to pursue Neto, several obstacles would still need to be overcome.

The club continues to operate under strict financial regulations in Spain, which limit spending and require careful planning for every transfer. Any move would have to comply with the league’s financial rules.

Chelsea’s valuation of the player would also be a major factor. After investing €60 million to sign him, the Premier League side would likely demand a significant fee to consider a sale.

Barcelona also have other targets under consideration, including reported interest in Julián Álvarez as part of their long-term attacking rebuild.

A situation worth watching

For now, Neto’s name simply sits on Barcelona’s growing list of potential signings.

But as the transfer window approaches and clubs begin shaping their plans, situations can change quickly.

If Barcelona decide they need more attacking depth — and if Neto becomes open to a new challenge — the links between the Portuguese winger and the Spanish giants could become one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer stories.