Chelsea considering Francisco Conceicao to replace Pedro Neto

Chelsea are reportedly eyeing a move for Juventus’ Francisco Conceicao to replace Pedro Neto if he leaves the West London club, according to the Daily Mail.

The Blues are preparing for Neto to potentially leave Stamford Bridge, with several sides pushing to secure his signature this summer.

Chelsea have now turned to his Portugal international (21 caps) teammate, who has caught the eye with his ability to constantly threaten in the final third.

Conceicao bagged four goals and five assists in 42 appearances last term after seven goals and six assists in fewer outings the season before.

His ability to cut inside to shoot has caught Chelsea’s eye, and they could swoop for him, especially if they manage to land the £100 million they are seeking for Neto.

Conceicao is a technically gifted forward who can thrive out wide as an out-and-out winger or as an inside 10 in the 3-4-2-1 shape Xabi Alonso has used.

However, Chelsea should think twice before rushing into the market for another winger if Neto does depart.

While Conceicao is undoubtedly an exciting talent, the Blues already have two outstanding young options capable of making a major impact from the wide areas.

Estevao Willian is primed to explode after a promising debut campaign that was unfortunately interrupted by injuries.

The Brazilian has already shown flashes of the creativity, ruthlessness, confidence and attacking instinct that made Chelsea spend heavily to bring him to Stamford Bridge.

A full season of fitness could see him take another huge step forward.

Then there is Geovany Quenda, another hugely exciting addition who has the potential to become a star.

The Portugal Under-21 international has the versatility, technical quality and fearlessness to thrive in Chelsea’s system.

With Estevao and Quenda waiting to establish themselves alongside the likes of Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers, Chelsea are more than set in the wide attacking areas.

If Neto leaves for the right price, the smarter move may be to trust the youngsters rather than block their pathway with another expensive signing.