Tottenham Hotspur has been linked with a potential move for Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Pedro Neto, but the path to securing this transfer is likely to be a challenging one, with Liverpool and Arsenal also showing a keen interest. Coach Ange Postecoglou has been hailed for revolutionizing the team’s style of play, resonating with supporters and propelling the team to challenge for a top-four renaissance.
Despite some setbacks during this season, Tottenham remains within touching distance of securing a place in the lucrative UEFA Champions League, trailing just five points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa with a game in hand. Postecoglou’s immediate impact at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has impressed the club hierarchy, prompting early summer plans to bolster the team’s ranks.
The departure of Harry Kane last summer disrupted the squad’s frontline, but Son Heung-min has risen to the occasion, while Richarlison is proving to be a significant goal-scoring asset. However, the 2-1 loss to Wolves in front of the home crowd was a major disappointment.
Interestingly, Pedro Neto, the summer target for Tottenham, proved to be instrumental in this defeat. Neto set up Joao Gomes for the winning goal, sealing Wolves’ third successive win over Spurs for the first time in their history.
Neto has become one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League and is widely considered to be destined for a move to one of the “big six” teams. The 23-year-old has been enjoying a stellar campaign with Wolverhampton Wanderers, having netted three goals and provided 11 assists in 20 games across all competitions. Neto has also created seven big chances in the Premier League this season.
Amidst much speculation, Tottenham’s pursuit of Neto faces a significant obstacle in the form of an £80 million price tag set by Wolverhampton. This amount, combined with concerns over Neto’s injury record, is giving Tottenham serious cause for pause about pursuing this deal.
Neto has encountered fitness issues over the past two seasons, missing a combined total of 79 games due to ankle and knee injuries. In the current season alone, he has already spent 58 days on the sidelines, missing nine matches. Despite his evident goal contributions, his injury record has raised doubts about making such a substantial investment.
Instead, Tottenham may turn their attention to Raphinha of Barcelona, who they have also been linked to. Raphinha could offer an attractive alternative to Neto, as a more seasoned and finished product with the ability to heighten the team’s attacking prowess. Ultimately, while Neto’s potential is promising given his young age, the team may be better served by investing in Raphinha, considering his experience and track record.