Back
According to a report by FootballTransfers on Friday, October 23, 2026, Pedro Neto has revealed that Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso was instrumental in convincing him to remain at Stamford Bridge and sign a new long-term contract despite reported interest from Liverpool.
The Portugal international was linked with a possible departure during the summer transfer window, with Chelsea reportedly willing to consider offers in the region of €100 million for the winger.
Liverpool were among the clubs monitoring his situation but eventually made no move after signing Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.
Neto ultimately committed his future to Chelsea by signing a six-year contract in September, keeping him at the club until 2032. Speaking to The Times, the 26-year-old explained that Alonso’s vision for his role in the team was the main reason he decided to stay.
“I think the biggest point was the manager,” Neto said.
“He talked to me and explained what he wanted. He made sure that I felt like I was wanted by him. Then the owner (Behdad Eghbali), as well, made sure that I was happy here.
“I was really happy that we could agree the contract. When you feel like you are appreciated, you always feel like home. That was the feeling that I had.”
Neto also credited his fiancée, Carolina, for helping him manage the uncertainty surrounding his future during the summer transfer window.
“She has been the base of emotional control,” the Chelsea winger said.
“Maybe in the transfer window I was a little bit crazy, because I wanted to solve things here. She helped me a lot. We feel like home here.”
The Portuguese winger has become an important part of Alonso’s plans this season, featuring in six of Chelsea’s opening seven Premier League matches.
Although he has regularly been deployed as a right wing-back, Neto has continued to make an impact in attack. He scored both goals in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Everton last weekend, further strengthening his position in the squad.
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, Neto has made 112 first-team appearances across competitions, scoring 23 goals and providing 20 assists.
His new deal marks a significant commitment from both the player and Chelsea, bringing an end to months of speculation over his future and reported interest from other clubs.