Barcelona ponder transfer swoop for Chelsea star Pedro Neto

Barcelona are monitoring Chelsea winger Pedro Neto ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Catalan giants have shortlisted the Portugal international as a potential addition to their attacking options.

The Chelsea forward has attracted attention from Barcelona after registering 10 goals and six assists in 42 appearances across all competitions this term.

Neto also played a role in Chelsea’s successful end to last season, helping the club secure the Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Barcelona reportedly value the 26-year-old’s versatility, particularly his ability to operate on either flank. He has also led the line on a few occasions.

The club are positive about the winger’s technical qualities and are exploring ways to strengthen their attacking depth.

However, a move would raise significant questions about Neto’s role if he joined the La Liga giants. Raphinha and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal have Barcelona’s wings locked down.

Both players have been central figures under Hansi Flick, making it difficult to envision Neto arriving as anything more than a rotation option.

That scenario may not appeal to a player who currently enjoys a starting role at Chelsea. There is also the matter of productivity and cost.

The Blues paid £54 million to sign Neto when he joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and will likely demand more than that figure to part ways.

Barcelona’s current left-sided back-up option, Marcus Rashford, has performed more consistently in front of goal and would likely be significantly cheaper to sign permanently.

If Barcelona are struggling to cough up the €30 million (£26m) required to sign Rashford, it is difficult to envisage them having the money for Neto.

Roony Bardghji is also a more natural understudy to Yamal on the right flank.

Neto’s potential arrival is far from straightforward, financially and tactically, even if Barcelona’s admiration for his ability is genuine.