Arsenal have reportedly made contact with the representatives of Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as they explore the possibility of signing the Portugal international ahead of the new season.

According to OneFootball, Arsenal have informed Neto’s camp of their interest as manager Mikel Arteta continues his search for a new left winger to strengthen his attacking options.

The development comes amid indications that Chelsea could be willing to consider offers for Neto, although the London club is expected to demand a substantial fee for the player.

Chelsea set £70m asking price

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to listen to offers for Neto but want any proposal to reflect the value they place on the player.

The club’s asking price is understood to be around £70 million, a figure that could make negotiations difficult unless Arsenal are prepared to commit significant funds to the deal.

Neto joined Chelsea after establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s notable attacking players and has also remained an important member of the Portugal national team setup.

His versatility and ability to operate from the flanks are believed to have attracted Arsenal, who are looking to add more depth and competition to their forward line.

Arteta continues search for left winger

Arteta is understood to be keen to strengthen the left side of his attack as Arsenal prepare for the new campaign.

The Gunners had previously explored the possibility of signing Vinícius Júnior from Real Madrid but were unable to convince the Brazilian forward to leave the Spanish giants.

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Vinícius has instead opted to sign a long-term contract with Real Madrid, ending Arsenal’s hopes of securing one of their preferred targets for the position.

With that option no longer available, Neto has emerged as a potential alternative.

Arsenal face major financial decision

A move for Neto would nevertheless represent a significant financial commitment, with Chelsea’s reported £70 million valuation placing pressure on Arsenal to determine whether the Portugal international fits their sporting and financial plans.

Chelsea’s willingness to listen to offers could give Arsenal an opening, but the Blues are reportedly not interested in accepting a low bid.

The next stage of negotiations could therefore depend on whether Arsenal are willing to meet Chelsea’s valuation or attempt to negotiate a lower fee.

For Chelsea, any decision to sell Neto would also have to be weighed against the club’s squad-building plans, while Arsenal would need to assess how the winger fits into Arteta’s tactical setup.

For now, Arsenal’s reported approach to Neto’s representatives signals their interest, but no agreement has been reached and the proposed £70 million valuation remains a potential hurdle in any deal.