EXCL: Pedro Neto to Arsenal latest, behind-the-scenes issue at Chelsea, key Real Madrid deal delayed, Man Utd wonderkid links, and more

Today's exclusive column, featuring Arsenal, Chelsea, Man Utd and more!

What’s going on with Mauricio Pochettino and Noni Madueke?

I wanted to touch on the situation with Chelsea and Noni Madueke. Mauricio Pochettino was not happy with the video that emerged showing Madueke partying with friends. The manager mentioned this in public, but also in private at Cobham - he had direct conversations with Madueke to make it clear that he wants his players to be super serious.

We know it’s not been an easy start to the season for Chelsea, so especially when things are not going well on the pitch, Pochettino wants to see that his players are more than serious. This was the message to Madueke, and the player understood - he’s a smart guy and Pochettino was happy with his reaction.

Pochettino also wanted to use this as a message to all his players, not just Madueke. He wants his players to be serious and 100% focused on Chelsea. Everything is now fine between Pochettino and Madueke, he’s a smart player and he took it well. Now he’s back in the squad and there are no issues.

The latest on Pedro Neto’s future + thoughts on Arsenal

We’re still seeing plenty of rumours about Pedro Neto, and as I said last week, things are likely to happen for the Portuguese winger in 2024 in terms of a transfer. Wolves said no to proposals in the summer, and there is no guarantee that they will approve a sale in January, but let’s see about 2024, whether that’s January or the summer, because clubs will arrive.

Arsenal wanted Neto just over a year ago. They’ve always been interested in the player and they keep tracking him, but there are also other clubs following the situation. He’s always been on the list for Arsenal but it’s nothing more concrete just yet, and the race looks to be absolutely open.