Pedro Neto has reiterated his commitment to Chelsea despite rumours of his potential sale back in the summer.

Back in the summer transfer window, Neto’s future at Stamford Bridge looked uncertain. 

Chelsea did not actively try to offload him from their squad, but they were understood to be open to selling the Portugal international for the right price, which, given the market rate for wingers at the time, they deemed would be close to £100 million.

Several clubs were said to be interested, including Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. However, Chelsea’s steep asking price understandably put off any concrete moves from potential suitors.

Neto ended up staying at Chelsea and, thanks to his versatility, proved to be an important player to Xabi Alonso in the hybrid wing-back-winger role. His value to the team was then reflected in the club’s decision to offer him a new six-year contract, tying him to Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2032.

Obviously, Neto’s new deal is in line with many of his Chelsea teammates, who are on incentive-driven contracts. There is an argument that he could have easily earned much more had he opted for a move to Saudi, for example.

Neto, however, has recently made it clear that he is fully committed to Chelsea.

“I’m drawn to Chelsea, the club with whom I’ve renewed my contract,” the 26-year-old told O Jogo when asked if transfer interest from Saudi tempted him.

“My mind is entirely on this. The club has looked after me, given me everything, and I’m very grateful for that. I’m not thinking about any other options.”

Since the last international break, Alonso has moved away from a back-three system and mostly utilised various back-four shapes, such as 4-3-2-1, 4-42, and 4-2-3-1.

As a result, this has allowed Neto to play in a more attacking role, especially in a more familiar right winger role. Joao Pedro’s injury absence has forced Neto to play as a false nine in recent games, but once the Brazil international returns, Neto is expected to operate on the right flank.

Neto has already had experience playing as a centre forward. However, still speaks volumes that Alonso prefers to have the winger’s pace and work rate up front over alternative natural striker options such as Danny Welbeck and Emmanuel Emegha.

That said, Neto likely faces fiercer competition for the right winger spot, particularly from Estevao Willian, than he did when he operated as a wing-back. Estevao does not offer the defensive coverage and stability that Neto does, but the Brazilian teenager’s ability to beat his defenders makes him an arguably more attractive option when Alonso wants more firepower.

Like last season, the pair will likely share minutes on the right flank, although the more versatile Neto may also get minutes elsewhere, including on the left wing.