Wolves expect 'fierce bidding war' as they seek record fee for Liverpool target

Wolves want a club-record fee to sell star attacker Pedro Neto this summer, according to reports. Liverpool have been listed among the Portuguese's admirers.

After a couple of injury-hit seasons, the 23-year-old has impressed in the Premier League in 2023/24, contributing two goals and eight assists in 15 outings.

The former Lazio and Braga star, who can feature across the forward line, has been in particularly fine form of late, registering three goal contributions in his last four appearances in all competitions.

According to the Standard, interest in Neto from the Premier League's big clubs is high, with Arsenal and Tottenham both named as admirers, as well as Liverpool.

However, Wolves are in a strong position due to the length of Neto's contract, which runs until 2027.

The report notes that the club are also in good standing with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules, having made over £100m from player sales this season, and don't need to sanction more departures. As such, Wolves would only entertain a sale for a club-record fee, speculated at £60m.

The club's current record sale came in at £53m for Matheus Nunes, who left for Manchester City last summer.

Meanwhile, a separate report from FootballTransfers suggests that Wolves could actually hold out for as much as €93m (£80m), such is the level of interest in Neto.

It is claimed that Molineux chiefs are expecting a 'fierce bidding war' for their forward, while the club are expecting the player to leave at the end of the season.

While it is hardly surprising to hear Liverpool's name mentioned in conversations around Neto, the chances of the Reds actually moving on a big-money target like the Portuguese star likely depend on two factors.

Firstly, who FSG appoint as the new sporting director and manager — with both positions key in transfer decisions.

Secondly, the future of Mohamed Salah.

The Egyptian will have just a year left on his contract this summer and speculation over his future persists, amid interest from Saudi Arabia.

Anfield Watch understands that the 31-year-old, who could return from injury this weekend, is leaning towards renewing his deal at Liverpool.