Barcelona target Chelsea winger Pedro Neto over Marcus Rashford transfer
Barcelona are considering a move for Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as an alternative to signing Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal this summer.
The Catalan club hold a €30m option to purchase the England forward following his successful season-long loan spell in Spain.
He has contributed 10 goals and 13 assists across all competitions for the current La Liga leaders.
Despite this impressive form, the Spanish giants are keeping their options open ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Chelsea winger emerges as alternative target
Reports in Spain indicate that Neto has been placed on a shortlist as the Camp Nou hierarchy look to bolster their attacking ranks.
The Portuguese international moved to Stamford Bridge from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2024 for a fee of £54m.
He remains contracted to the West London outfit until the summer of 2031, having scored 19 goals in 93 appearances.
Controversy surrounds potential signing
Any pursuit of the 24-year-old comes during a turbulent period for the former Wolves attacker.
He is currently serving a one-match Football Association ban following a red card against Arsenal and faces further disciplinary action after shoving a ball boy during a midweek defeat to Paris St-Germain.
Blues manager Liam Rosenior addressed the incident, confirming the player had shown immediate remorse.
“I’ve watched it back and it doesn’t look good. I understand Pedro’s perspective and his want to win, but there are ways you go about it.”
“I was so impressed that he wanted to apologise straight away. We all make mistakes, it’s about learning from them and making sure they don’t happen again.”
Title charge continues for loanee
While his long-term future remains uncertain, the Manchester United academy graduate could still secure the first league title of his career this season.
Hansi Flick’s side currently sit four points clear of bitter rivals Real Madrid at the top of the Spanish top flight.
Speaking ahead of their weekend fixture against Sevilla, the German head coach confirmed his loanee is available for selection.
“Marcus was away for a few days and has come back strong. I haven’t decided yet, but he’s a good option to start.”
Meanwhile, Rosenior’s men sit fifth in the Premier League table, trailing fourth-placed Aston Villa by three points in the race for Champions League qualification.
