Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has explained that Pedro Neto is really tempted by a move to Arsenal, as the race to sign the Wolves winger intensifies.
The Gunners are reportedly interested in the 22-year-old winger but will need to offload Nicolas Pepe, who is close to sealing a loan move to Nice, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who West Ham are keen on bringing in.
Speaking on his 'Here We Go' podcast, Romano insisted that Arsenal's interest remains strong with the Portuguese but explained outgoings are a priority if a deal is to be concluded before September 1st.
READ MORE: Ready to make second bid, Edu's patience - Youri Tielemans to Arsenal transfer state of play
"Outgoings was the priority because if they want a new winger. They need to complete the loan deal with Nice for Nicolas Pepe, there is a negotiation progressing, and it does not include any buy option, but that is still in negotiation, so that could change.
"At the moment, no buy-out option and just a loan until the end of the season with Nice. They are discussing the salary coverage, also important to say for the outgoings. They are looking to find a solution for Maitland-Niles.
"West Ham, I am told, are interested, so Maitland-Niles could be another player set to leave Arsenal."
And whilst those are some of the options Arsenal may need to take to secure the signing of Neto, Romano has explained the 22-year-old is keen on a switch to the Emirates but will not force a move through.
"Neto would be really tempted by Arsenal," explained Romano.
"I am told the player is another factor in this story. He is not forcing anything, as of now, but he will be keen to move to Arsenal."
Mikel Arteta has already bolstered his attacking options this season with the signing of Gabriel Jesus, Marquinhos and Fabio Vieira, but Romano explained that Neto is now a priority, but negotiations with Wolves could stumble over agreeing a transfer fee.
"Pedro Neto is their main target as the winger," explained Romano.
"I am told Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Neto, and Edu is exploring the possibilities, but Arsenal have sent their scouts to watch two players.
"Moussa Diaby from Bayer Leverkusen, but they have been told he's untouchable and has been offered a new deal, and Yeremy Vino, an important player for Villarreal, is in negotiations.
"However, Pedro Neto remains the main target, but it is not an easy negotiation because Wolves want £50m for Neto, so let's see after the outgoings."
READ NEXT:
- Arsenal already have their own Diogo Jota as Mikel Arteta makes special request for £34m signing
- Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest updates and rumours from the Emirates Stadium
- Full Arsenal Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
- Arsenal transfer business under the microscope in 'good deal' or 'bad deal'
- Granit Xhaka completes Arsenal turnaround as Mikel Arteta’s transfer decision vindicated