La Liga champions Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing 25-year-old Portuguese international Pedro Neto, but Chelsea’s asking price poses an issue.

According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Pedro Neto is the subject of interest from Barcelona. The reigning La Liga champions are keen on reinforcing their offensive unit by signing a versatile attacker. So, the 25-year-old Chelsea winger has emerged as a target for the Blaugrana.

However, Chelsea’s asking price poses a problem for Barcelona, as the West London club will demand around €80 million to part ways with him next year. That amount is “beyond Barcelona’s current budget” amid the never-ending financial issues. They will only pay close to €80 million if they complete “significant sales and internal restructuring” next year.

How has Pedro Neto fared at Chelsea?

Pedro Neto has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Chelsea from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal worth €60 million last year. The 25-year-old attacker’s creative output in the final third makes him a potential asset for the West London club. However, the player has not been as productive as he would have liked.

The issues have continued this season, as Neto has managed only four goals and two assists in 14 appearances across all competitions thus far. However, the Portuguese international’s stock in the market is high, with Barcelona among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

La Liga adventure beckons?

Barcelona’s interest in Pedro Neto is understandable. The defending La Liga champions are scouring the market for a versatile attacker heading into the next two transfer windows, with a summer move likely. While widespread reports have suggested that Barcelona may complete a permanent move for Marcus Rashford, links with other bigwigs like Chelsea may have forced the Blaugrana to pursue alternatives.

Several candidates, including Malick Fofana, have thus emerged on Barcelona’s radar, with Neto also a viable target. However, Chelsea’s asking price of at least €80 million has complicated matters for the Blaugrana, as the valuation does not fit the Catalan club’s budget.

But a deal worth €80 million may materialise if Barcelona can raise funds by ensuring “significant departures or internal restructuring” in the coming months. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the 25-year-old Portuguese international.