Arsenal has reached an agreement with AFC Bournemouth to sign 35-year-old goalkeeper Neto. The deal is a season-long loan without a buy option or obligation. Neto will undergo a medical on Deadline Day as Arsenal seeks cover following Aaron Ramsdale’s exit.
- Arsenal has finalized a loan agreement with AFC Bournemouth for Neto.
- The deal is a season-long loan with no buy option or obligation.
- Neto will undergo a medical on Deadline Day.
- Arsenal seeks to reinforce their goalkeeping options after Aaron Ramsdale’s departure.
Neto Joins Arsenal on Loan
Arsenal has finalized a loan agreement with AFC Bournemouth for the seasoned Brazilian goalkeeper, Norberto Murara Neto. The deal, as reported by David Ornstein, involves a season-long loan with no buy option or obligation. This move comes as Arsenal looks to reinforce their goalkeeping options following the departure of Aaron Ramsdale to Chelsea. Neto, who has had stints with Barcelona, Juventus, and Valencia, will undergo a medical on Deadline Day.
🚨 Arsenal reach agreement with AFC Bournemouth to sign goalkeeper Neto. Deal for 35yo Brazilian season-long loan – no buy option or obligation. Medical on #DeadlineDay as #AFC line up No2 to Raya after Ramsdale exit + struggle to get Garcia @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/rew5BzIeRn
pic.twitter.com— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein)
October 12, 2023
Neto, 35, brings a wealth of experience from top European leagues. Standing at 1.90 meters, his shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure are well-documented. With 61 career appearances and 13 clean sheets, Neto’s presence will be critical for Arsenal as they navigate the season with David Raya as their first choice.
David Raya’s Role at Arsenal
David Raya, who joined Arsenal from Brentford for a reported £30 million in 2023, is expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper following Ramsdale’s exit. Raya has had an impressive career, with over 150 appearances and 50 clean sheets at Brentford. His transfer was seen as a significant upgrade for Arsenal’s goalkeeping department. The addition of Neto as a backup emphasizes the club’s strategy to ensure robust competition and depth in their squad.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hinted at the need for new signings to address squad limitations, emphasizing the importance of having a robust squad to navigate the season effectively. The signing of Neto aligns with this strategy, providing experienced cover for Raya.
Aaron Ramsdale’s Departure
Aaron Ramsdale’s transfer to Chelsea for a reported £40 million in 2024 left a significant gap in Arsenal’s goalkeeping lineup. Ramsdale made over 70 appearances for Arsenal, securing 20 clean sheets during his tenure. His move was one of the high-profile transfers of the summer, prompting Arsenal to seek immediate and experienced cover.
Ramsdale’s departure to Chelsea highlights the dynamic nature of the transfer market and the importance of strategic signings. Arsenal’s acquisition of Neto on a season-long loan without a buy option or obligation is a calculated move to fill the gap left by Ramsdale while exploring long-term solutions.
Arsenal’s Struggle to Sign Garcia
In addition to securing Neto, Arsenal had faced challenges in signing another goalkeeper, referred to as Garcia. While the tweet did not specify Garcia’s full name, it likely points to a young or less-known goalkeeper who was a target for Arsenal. The struggle to secure Garcia underscores the complexities of the transfer market and Arsenal’s determination to strengthen their squad.
Arsenal’s proactive approach in the transfer market, including the recent signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, reflects the club’s commitment to addressing squad depth issues. The arrival of Neto is a strategic move to ensure that Arsenal remains competitive and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
For more detailed player statistics and transfer history, check Neto’s profile on Transfermarkt.
