Arsenal had a strong start to the summer transfer window addressing both the forward and defensive positions, which clearly needed strengthening towards the back of last season. Despite a good start to the window, more acquisitions are still needed.
The Gunners have been searching for a midfielder and a winger throughout the window without much success. However, it seems Edu is set to address the wide areas as the north London side have reportedly targeted Pedro Neto as the next signing in this summer transfer window.
There has been doubts about the incoming of the winger due to his similarities in terms of age and ability to Bukayo Saka. Despite this, Neto would actually prove to be a benefit for the Englishman rather than a hindrance.
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Following Arsenal’s 3-0 win against Bournemouth, it meant that Saka became the second youngest player to reach 100 Premier League appearances, with Cesc Fabregas ranking above him.
The academy graduate is also in the top five for appearances made for Arsenal before turning 20, meaning he is above Arsenal legends such as David Rocastle and Liam Brady, and has been used more than any other player by Mikel Arteta since he took charge of the team in 2019.
However, if the Gunners were to sell Nicolas Pepe at the end of the transfer window, then competition alongside Saka would certainly be needed. Despite the excellent performances the Englishman had shown for Arsenal throughout last season, there had been times when he had shown signs of burnout, with Arteta admitting at the end of the season that the youngster needs rest. Having someone who can help successfully share the attacking load would certainly be beneficial.
Arsenal have been linked with a 'mystery winger', which according to Fabrizio Romano, remains a position Edu and Mikel Arteta want to address.
Neto would be the perfect player to provide competition for Saka and to also give him rest bite after continuously playing a consecutive amount of games. It is also a notion that Edu seems to agree with, as according to the Athletic’s David Ornstein, Arsenal’s current transfer priority is to sign Neto. The Gunners have reportedly been in discussions for over a month to try and complete a deal. TalkSPORT have also reported that it will take £50 million to secure his services.
The arrival of the Portuguese winger would also be extremely beneficial this season due to the World Cup that is set to take place in November. While Saka seems to have a guaranteed spot in Gareth Southgate’s England set-up, the same cannot be said for Neto with Portugal.
If Neto does not get the call-up then he can have the valuable time for the rest and restart the second part of the season fully fit, which will allow Saka to have the necessary recovery to help him find his best form again.
Neto would certainly be a beneficial acquisition rather than a hindrance to Saka’s development. It is certainly a deal that Edu should look to get over the line.
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