Arsenal are well-positioned to make a move for Barcelona goalkeeper Neto this summer, according to Spanish newspaper SPORT, as the Blaugrana outfit eye a clear-out.
Barcelona are thought to be keen on the idea of moving on Neto, deputy to Marc-Andre Ter Stegen for the past three seasons and are hopeful that the Gunners will reignite their interest in the shot-stopper.
The North Londoners look set to lose their own ‘number two’ after the Evening Standard, among others, reported on Fulham’s serious interest in Bernd Leno, falling out of favour since Aaron Ramsdale’s arrival from Sheffield United, last summer.
With the news of the ex-Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper’s departure, SPORT believe Arsenal could be set to make a move for Neto, whose name has been associated with a switch to the Emirates Stadium before.
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The Brazilian and his camp are thought to have close ties with current Arsenal technical director Edu Gaspar, but a move for the ex-Valencia man may not be so simple so sign off.
According to the same report, Barcelona will be looking to sell the player outright, meanwhile also expecting the player to ease his salary requirements in their personal bid to balance the books.
Unlike Barcelona, however, Arsenal will be under no pressure to get this deal over the line, with a Leno replacement already in the pipeline.
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The Gunners will welcome USA International Matt Turner this summer after landing the 27-year-old from New England Revolution for £5.75 million.
After winning the 2021 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award, Turner signs a three-year-deal with Arsenal and is a lead candidate to challenge Ramsdale at club level ahead of the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
With Arsenal seemingly defining their plans in anticipation of the Leno-exit rumours, it’s likely that Mikel Arteta and co. will once again pass on the opportunity to land the unwanted Neto.
Patrick Ribeiro