"I have worked really hard in my career to be here" - Pedro Neto speaks after completing Chelsea move
New Chelsea addition Pedro Neto has spoken for the first time after completing his transfer to the English side from Wolves. The Portugal international is the latest addition to the Blues squad after spending five years as a Wolves player.
Chelsea have been very active in the summer transfer window after failing to make a single signing in the January window. The Blues had already signed eight players this summer heading into this week, with Argentine teenager Aaron Anselmino the most recent addition.
Enzo Maresca's side are not done in the transfer market, as they completed a surprising swoop for Pedro Neto. The 24-year-old winger was signed for around £54 million on a six-year contract with an option for an extra year, and he was presented to the fans at Stamford Bridge.
Pedro Neto spoke with the club's media after his unveiling, revealing his excitement at joining the Blues. He expressed gratitude at being able to sign for Chelsea and said he worked hard to get an opportunity to play at their level.
“I feel really grateful to have joined this club. I have worked really hard in my career to be here and I’m looking forward to getting on the pitch with this shirt," he said.
Neto joins the Blues following five years at the Molineux, where he made 135 appearances with 14 goals and 24 assists to his name. The Portugal international has also represented Lazio in Italy, where he spent two years, and Braga, where he began his career.
Pedro Neto will join the likes of Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Guiu, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Renato Veiga, Omari Kellyman, and Filip Jorgensen as new Blues. The duo of Caleb Wiley and Anselmino will spend time out on loan away from the club.
Chelsea draw against Inter Milan in pre-season finale
Chelsea played out a 1-1 draw against Italian champions Inter Milan to end their pre-season with a stalemate. The Blues returned to Stamford Bridge for the first time following their tour of the USA, and they got a deserved draw.
Inter Milan opened the scoring after 26 minutes through Marcus Thuram after a momentary defensive lapse from the Blues. Chelsea grew into the game, with Guiu coming close to equalizing before the break.
Maresca introduced his heavy-hitters in the second half and Christopher Nkunku came close to a leveler with a stunning bicycle kick. The home side finally found their equalizer in the 90th minute when Lesley Ugochukwu lashed home an effort from inside the box on a half-volley.
Chelsea ended their preparations with a draw and will begin the season with Manchester City visiting on Sunday, August 18. They will be keen to avoid a repeat of their 4-2 defeat to the Cityzens in the USA friendly from earlier this month.