Arsenal Football Club has reportedly reached an agreement to sign Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto, strengthening their goalkeeping department. This move comes after the Gunners converted David Raya's loan move into a permanent transfer earlier this summer.
David Raya, the Spain international, has secured the number-one spot after displacing Aaron Ramsdale in the early stages of last season. Consequently, Ramsdale is eager to leave Emirates Stadium before the transfer deadline in search of regular playing time elsewhere.
Ramsdale is on track to complete a £25m move to Southampton after undergoing a medical with the Saints on Thursday. However, Arsenal needs to secure a replacement before they can approve Ramsdale's departure ahead of the summer transfer deadline.
Failed negotiations and new targets
Initially, Arsenal was keen on signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia. However, negotiations stalled as Espanyol held out for Garcia’s €30m (£21m) price tag. This impasse forced Arsenal to shift their focus towards alternative targets.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal is now close to signing Neto from Bournemouth following an agreement over a season-long loan deal without any buy option included.
From South Coast To North London
Neto will undergo medical checks on deadline day before being officially unveiled as an Arsenal player. The Bournemouth captain has made 63 competitive appearances since joining from Barcelona in 2022 and is under contract until June 2026.
Despite starting all three of Bournemouth’s competitive matches this season - including Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat against West Ham United in the second round of EFL Cup - he was set for competition from Kepa Arrizabalaga who recently arrived from Chelsea on a similar loan deal. With Neto set for departure, Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth's manager, will have Arrizabalaga and Mark Travers as his main two goalkeeping options.
In addition to Bournemouth and Barcelona, Neto has also represented Athletico Paranaense, Fiorentina, Juventus and Valencia during his career. His move to Arsenal marks another significant chapter in his professional journey. This transfer is a strategic move for Arsenal as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. It remains to be seen how this change will impact the team's performance in upcoming matches.
