Quantcast
Home   >   Transfer News   >   Report – Arsenal pushing to sign Brazilian star, agent feels move is ‘most viable’

Report – Arsenal pushing to sign Brazilian star, agent feels move is ‘most viable’

By on July 20, 2021

According to Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal are pushing to sign Neto from Barcelona and his agent believes a move to the Emirates Stadium is the ‘most viable’ option this summer.

Mikel Arteta is in the market for a new goalkeeper after Mat Ryan left following his short loan spell. Alex Runarsson is well out of his depth so he will hopefully leave soon while Bernd Leno’s future is in doubt.

The German has two years left on his contract and is reportedly reluctant to sign an extension so Arsenal need to bring in at least one top class keeper this summer – two if Leno is sold [that’s unlikely at this stage].

We’ve been linked with the likes of Aaron Ramsdale and Sam Johnstone but Neto’s name has resurfaced as a potential target. Arsenal were heavily linked with Neto back in January and although the Brazilian was keen on a move, we couldn’t agree terms with Barcelona.

It appears Arsenal have renewed their interest as Mundo Deportivo claims we’ve stepped-up our pursuit for Neto and are ‘determined’ to sign the South American stopper this summer.

The Spanish publication says Tottenham are also keen and a move to England looks likely but Arsenal are showing the most serious interest and Neto’s agent feels a move to the Emirates Stadium is the ‘most viable’ option.

First choice?

The 32-year-old is keen to seek a new challenge after struggling to establish himself at the Nou Camp following his move from Valencia in 2019. Neto is well behind Marc-Andre Ter Stegen in the pecking order and has made just 17 appearances in the past two years.

So it’s no surprise he wants to leave in search of regular football but would he definitely get it at Arsenal? If Leno stays, which is likely in my opinion, there is no guarantee Neto will be No.1. In fact, I’d argue it’s unlikely next season as Arteta will probably stick with Leno for the time being.

Most clubs have two top class keepers these days so perhaps Arsenal plan to sell Leno next summer and want to bring Neto in now so he can act as back-up before replacing the German in 12 months time. But do we need two top class keepers without European football this season?

Maybe Arsenal are planning to sell Leno this summer and are eyeing Neto as a replacement? Who knows, I guess we’ll have to wait and see what happens but I personally don’t see Neto as an upgrade on Leno and would only want him if he’s going to be a No.2.