Liverpool are interested in Wolves winger Pedro Neto, according to writer and Reds pundit Neil Jones in his exclusive column for the Daily Briefing.
The Portugal international has long been regarded as a top young talent with a bright future and he has been a real eye-catcher in the Premier League so far this season, having put some of his recent injury problems behind him and played with more consistency.
Liverpool have signed a number of attacking players in recent years and are doing well replacing outgoing stars like Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino with players like Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, but there could soon be room for someone ‘one like Neto too.
Mohamed Salah is not getting any younger and there is a feeling that transfer interest from Saudi Arabia could continue to be a problem for Liverpool.
Could Neto be an ideal replacement for Salah? It appears Jones is a fan of the player and he is also aware that the Anfield figures feel the same way.
“Given the way he has started the Premier League season, it doesn’t surprise me that Pedro Neto’s name is associated with big clubs,” Jones said.
“The Wolves man has always been a great talent, admired by almost every big team, including Liverpool, but injuries have set him back considerably in recent years.
“Now he’s fit again, we’re seeing what he can do and the pace and threat he brings, as well as the room for development he has at 23, marks him out as someone who could be considered for a move to the Champions League. I can definitely take the next step.” Club.
“Whether it’s Liverpool – besides, they have yet to return to the Champions League! – that remains to be seen.
I know Neto has admirers at Anfield and his versatility and ability will suit Jurgen Klopp’s team well. But the same, I think, can be said for a Mikel Arteta team or a Pep Guardiola team. I think he’s potentially at that level.
“However the first goal for him must be to stay fit and transform this purple patch into something more sustainable.
He still needs to improve his numbers, especially in terms of goals, if he wants to place himself among the best strikers.
But he is making waves at Wolves at the moment, and if he continues to do so, we can expect him to do bigger and better things next season.
“With reasons to think that stories about Mohamed Salah and Saudi Arabia may not disappear in 2024, Neto could certainly be one to watch.”
Neto has also been particularly linked as a long-term target for Arsenal, and the fact that they have the Champions League and are currently looking to challenge Manchester City for the title could be key in determining who Neto chooses for his next club.
