Arsenal have added Barcelona goalkeeper, Neto, to their summer transfer list with Chelsea looking to cause some issues with their own plans.
Barcelona have recently placed their second-choice goalkeeper, Neto, on the transfer market as they look to use his sale to either improve their finances or fund a different transfer.
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Catalan side joined hands with Valencia a year ago, to swap their respective goalkeepers, with Jasper Cillessen joining Los Murcelagos while Neto moved the opposite direction to Camp Nou.
Cillessen was undoubtedly too superior to playing as a second-goalkeeper and as his aspirations grew so had the likelihood of him leaving. Since his departure, Neto has filled the role of a backup to Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Barca’s No. 1 choice has consistently saved the club on numerous occasions with his world-class performances to establish himself as one of the greats of this sport. Due to this dominance, Neto has struggled to make his mark, only appearing for four matches across all competition since his arrival.
The Spanish side have shortlisted Ajax keeper and former La Masia graduate, Andre Onana, as the new backup for Ter Stegen after reportedly placing their B team youngster Inaki Pena on Loan list as they feel the 21-year-old requires more time to develop.
Arsenal have emerged as a potential buyer for Neto as they prepare to battle with the likes of Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Real Betis and Sevilla, as they are all interested in acquiring the 30-year-old. Barca know that the demand for Neto is high and look to squeeze the most out of any potential buyer to maximize their profits.
The Gunner’s current second-choice goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, has played on 11 occasions this season and with his contract expiring in 2022, the Premier League side are already preparing for the inevitable. Neto will undoubtedly be a better back-up to Arsenal’s No. 1 Bernd Leno with coach Mikel Arteta insisting on signing the players that desire a move to the Emirates.
"“Everybody wants to come here and we have a really clear idea of what we are. It doesn’t need much convincing and if they do, for me it’s not a good starting point.” Arteta said.Source"
Chelsea are also looking for a keeper with boss Frank Lampard falling out of love with Kepa Arrizabalaga. Their backup of Willy Caballero at 38 years of age. is also not suitable to take over from Kepa. The Blues are now looking for a steal as they are keeping a close eye on both, Neto and Ajax’s Onana.
It remains to be seen which teams emerge victorious as there are 3 teams and only 2 goalkeepers to go around.
Should Barca sign their former keeper after selling Neto?