Chelsea kicks off their Premier League season with a clash against Fulham in a highly anticipated west London derby on Monday evening.
Xabi Alonso’s squad experienced a mixed pre-season, but they ended positively, securing a commanding 3-1 victory against La Liga side Real Sociedad on Saturday.
Last season was a difficult one for the Blues, who finished in a disappointing tenth place. The club made headlines for parting ways with both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior during the campaign.
As the new season approaches, Alonso will be eager to instigate a turnaround, starting with a win against their local rivals on Monday.
In transfer news, Chelsea is reportedly looking to command a hefty price for one of their standout players.
The Daily Mail has revealed that the club will ask for nearly £100 million should they choose to part ways with winger Pedro Neto this summer.
Neto made his way to Stamford Bridge from Wolverhampton Wanderers two years ago for approximately £54 million and has since racked up 103 appearances across all competitions for the Blues.
During his tenure in SW6, the Portuguese international has contributed 19 goals and matched that with 19 assists, drawing interest from numerous clubs. Reports indicate that Chelsea’s valuation of Neto is influenced by the significant fee Real Madrid paid for Yan Diomande earlier this month and the asking price put forth for Liverpool target Bradley Barcola.
At 26 years old, Neto has attracted attention from several clubs, including Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, as well as Premier League rivals Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester City. His contract with Chelsea is set to run until the end of the 2030/31 season.
