“Future and long-term ambitions don’t matter,” said Wolves winger Pedro Neto in October when asked about his future amid links with Arsenal.
A day later, he would leave the Molineux pitch on a stretcher after suffering a significant hamstring injury. He had grabbed an assist in that 2-2 draw with Newcastle to make it eight goal contributions in as many Premier League games.
However, he would not play again until December 30th, which was actually considered a result for Gary O’Neil who had feared he would be out for longer. Unfortunately, Neto is no stranger to the physio room.
In April 2021, the Portugal star injured his knee cap and he spent 10 months out of action. Then last season, an ankle injury ruled him out between September 2022 and March 2023. Now, Neto has suffered another problem after his resurfacing hamstring problem forced him off in the weekend’s 2-1 win over Fulham.
It comes as a bitter blow not just for Wolves, but for hopes of a summer move to a big-hitter. Arsenal are rumoured to still be interested in the 24-year-old, who has five caps and a goal for his country.
Wolves may ultimately be forced to sell Neto regardless. They are thought to be running close to breaking Premier League spending limits, albeit will not incur any charges this campaign.