Xabi Alonso says he is “very happy” with Pedro Neto after the winger signed a new deal with Chelsea this week.
The Blues announced on Friday that Neto had signed fresh terms that will keep him at the club until 2032.
The Portugal international joined the west London outfit from Wolves on a seven-year contract in 2024 for a £51.3 million transfer plus £2.6 million in add-ons.
Neto had been linked with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur during the transfer window, but ultimately stayed at Stamford Bridge.
The 26-year-old has featured in all of Chelsea’s games so far this season, scoring twice in five appearances, bringing his overall tally at the club to 21 goals and 19 assists in 108 appearances in all competitions.
Alonso ‘very happy’ as Chelsea star signs new deal
Before the deal was announced, Alonso spoke to the media about Neto’s role in his team and how he is pleased with his contribution thus far.
“For me, he is a winger,” he told his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash with Hull City in the Premier League.
“You can call him a winger or wing-back because he has many qualities. He can play on the last line and defend on the first line. He has this capacity to do many things. He is good in one on ones, he is scoring goals and has a fantastic work rate. He connects very well with players around him.
“I knew him very well from watching many Chelsea games and with him you know he is going to compete. You want this guy in your team. I am very happy with Pedro and the work he is doing.”
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