Arsenal confirm loan signing of Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto

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Arsenal have now confirmed the signing of Brazilian goalkeeper Norberto Neto, who has joined from Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.

Neto has joined Arsenal on a season-long loan deal, in order to replace Aaron Ramsdale, who joined Southampton earlier today.

The 35-year-old has a lot of experience under his belt, having played for Juventus, Fiorentina, Athletico Paranaense, Barcelona and Valencia prior to his move to Bournemouth.

The goalkeeper was the first-choice option under Andoni Iraola last season, appearing 32 times in the Premier League, but the arrival of Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan meant that he was available for Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal had agreed personal terms with Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, but the La Liga club refused to negotiate over a transfer, and there was an unwillingness to pay his full release clause, leading Arsenal to Neto.

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Arsenal confirm signing of Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto

Arsenal have confirmed the arrival of Neto, with the veteran joining on loan without an option to buy.

Neto made 63 appearances for Bournemouth, conceding 99 goals and keeping 13 clean sheets, and became their club-captain last season.

“I’m realising a dream in my life, a dream come true, and I’m really, really happy,” Neto told club media after his arrival.

“I had two dreams as a kid to play for a football team. It was my team in Brazil, where I grew up and became a professional footballer, and also Arsenal. And now I’m realising it! I’m a really lucky person.

“To all the supporters of Arsenal, I’d just like to say I’m one more fan here. My dream has come true, I’m really happy. Depend on me, I’ll give more than 100% to give everything for Arsenal.”

What Neto will bring to Arsenal

Arsenal needed to replace Ramsdale in the goalkeeping roster as a backup to David Raya, and Neto can fill his shoes as a squad player.

Neto will be the second-choice, but he cannot play in the Carabao Cup, having already appeared in the competition this season.

If Raya is to pick up an injury, Neto would be able to step in as capable cover, and has plenty of experience in the Premier League and European competition, having made 10 Champions League appearances.

Neto stands at 1.9 metres tall, and would bring a strong physical presence between the sticks, whilst he has also played in sides which play out from the back like Arsenal do under Mikel Arteta.