Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a January move for Chelsea winger Pedro Neto, with the club looking to address a significant gap in their attacking options.
The Gunners had a busy summer transfer window, bringing in five permanent signings as they looked to bolster their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Despite the activity, Arsenal made only one forward acquisition in Christos Tzolis, a decision that raised eyebrows among supporters and analysts alike.
The club parted ways with two left wingers in Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli during the summer, leaving a noticeable void on that flank.
Tzolis is considered inexperienced at the top level, meaning Arsenal’s current options in wide attacking areas remain a concern heading into the second half of the season.
According to Caught Offside, the Gunners are likely to make a formal approach for Neto, having already gathered information about the player through representatives.
Arsenal are not alone in their admiration for the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man, with Manchester City also credited with a strong interest in the Portuguese winger.
Interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal adds another layer of competition to what could become a fiercely contested transfer battle in the winter window.
Chelsea’s hierarchy are understood to expect a significant fee for the 26-year-old, with the club valuing the deal at somewhere between £60 million and £69 million.
Neto has been a consistent performer since his move to Stamford Bridge, establishing himself as one of the more creative and dynamic wide players in the Premier League.
The January window gives Arsenal a genuine opportunity to correct what many regard as a strategic oversight from their summer business in the forward department.
Whether the Gunners are prepared to meet Chelsea’s valuation remains to be seen, but the foundations of a potential deal appear to already be taking shape.