Manchester City unwilling to pay transfer fee quoted by Chelsea for Enzo Maresca’s former player: Reports

Manchester City are reportedly hesitant in their pursuit of Chelsea’s Pedro Neto after identifying the winger as a transfer target.

The Cityzens emerged as surprise admirers of Neto, joining Arsenal in the race for the Portugal international. City’s interest in Neto is understood to be driven by manager Enzo Maresca, who managed the player during his brief spell as head coach at Stamford Bridge.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Maresca is keen to sign Neto as a possible replacement for Savinho, who is nearing a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Although the Blues want to keep Neto, they are not closing the door to his transfer.

Talks regarding a transfer, however, have now reached an impasse, with Romano reporting that there is a “huge gap” between what Manchester City are willing to pay and Chelsea’s valuation.

The journalist added that the Blues are not in a rush to part ways with the winger as they believe he could play a big role under their new manager Xabi Alonso.

The fact that Chelsea “do not plan to reduce their requests” means a potential move to the Etihad Stadium is unlikely for Neto at the moment. It remains to be seen whether Manchester City will improve their offer, but whatever it is, that could present an opportunity for Arsenal, who are in the market for a left winger.

The West London club signed Neto for a total package of £54 million, and his current market value stands at €60 million, according to Transfermarkt.

The situation is similar with Enzo Fernandez, who has also been linked with a move to City. However, the Blues are unwilling to budge on their valuation of £120 million for the midfielder.

“This is a dream for me” – Chelsea’s latest signing Pep Chavarria on sealing move to club

On Wednesday, Chelsea completed the signing of Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano for a reported fee of €19m plus €2m add-ons. The 28-year-old joins the Blues as Marc Cucurella’s replacement.

“I’m so excited to get started,” Chavarria said. “This is a dream for me as Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the world. It is a big opportunity but I am prepared and will work hard to help the team achieve success.

“There are a lot of people who have helped me get to this moment and I have to thank my family. They have always supported me and today is only possible because of them.”

Chavarria signed a five-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2031. The club said he will begin working with his new teammates at Cobham as they prepare for the new season.