Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Gary O’Neil will face a challenge in the upcoming fixtures as star player Pedro Neto is unavailable. Neto’s absence is due to a significant development at Molineux, and sports journalist Dean Jones, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, described the situation as “quite stressful” for O’Neil.
Despite Wolves dealing with the departure of key players like Ruben Neves, Matheus Nunes, and Raul Jimenez during the summer transfer window, which brought in nearly £160 million, Neto played a crucial role in the team’s promising start to the season.
However, since O’Neil took over as head coach after Julen Lopetegui’s departure just days before the season began, there are concerns that Neto will be sidelined for an extended period.
Neto is expected to return to action before the end of the year, according to MailOnline, after sustaining a hamstring injury during a match against Newcastle United. The report suggests that he might be out for approximately six weeks, with a chance of returning for the busy festive period, although Neto himself mentioned on social media that he would be on the treatment table for “a few weeks.”
Neto’s absence is a significant setback for Wolves, as he had been in outstanding form at the start of the season, contributing eight goals in 10 appearances. O’Neil will need to find an alternative creative spark in his absence.
The improved performance of the five-cap Portugal international has led to suggestions that it would require a bid of over £70 million to persuade Wolves to consider selling him in the upcoming transfer window, as noted by Sunday People chief sports writer Neil Moxley.
Neto’s injury came shortly after he stated that he had no intention of seeking a mid-season move away from Wolves, despite interest from clubs like Arsenal, Aston Villa, Atletico Madrid, and Saudi Pro League teams. His commitment to Wolves and his long-term contract with a salary of £50,000 per week, which has almost four years remaining, put the club in a strong negotiating position.
Dean Jones noted that O’Neil now faces a challenging situation, with Neto sidelined due to injury, and several potential suitors showing interest in the talented winger. Neto’s absence will be keenly felt during numerous Premier League matches.
On a separate note, Wolves are reportedly interested in Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, who has been frustrated by limited playing time and is exploring loan options. Several clubs, including Brentford, Lazio, Fiorentina, Lens, and Lyon, are monitoring his situation. Moukoko’s contract with Dortmund is valued at just over £100,000 per week, making his future uncertain despite signing a new contract a few months ago.
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