Arsenal agree to sign goalkeeper from Premier League rival to replace Aaron Ramsdale

 

Arsenal are looking to make a surprise deadline day move in anticipation of Aaron Ramsdale’s move to Southampton after one of their swoops fell through earlier this window

Arsenal have made a surprise loan move to sign Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto on deadline day.

The Gunners have been on the lookout for more options between the sticks throughout the summer. And their need has grown greater over recent days with Aaron Ramsdale on the verge of a permanent switch to newly-promoted Southampton.

The former Sheffield United and Bournemouth star was linked with a move back to his former club but has instead opted for a £25million move to St Mary’s. And his exit leaves Arsenal needing a back-up option to David Raya.

Despite initially eyeing a long-term option, the Gunners have been forced to look for a shorter-term solution after striking a deal with Bournemouth for Brazil veteran Neto. The Cherries are happy to let him leave after securing the services of Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan from Chelsea.

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Neto will sign a season-long loan deal with Arsenal. There will be no option or obligation to buy slotted into the agreement.

Neto, now 35, signed for Bournemouth in 2022 after leaving Barcelona. The one-time Brazil international has made 62 appearances for the Cherries since then including starts in the club’s opening two Premier League games of the season.

He can also count Fiorentina, Juventus and Valencia among his past employers. He will now undergo a medical with Arsenal ahead of formalising a deadline day switch to the Emirates.

Neto finally brings to an end Arsenal’s long search for a goalkeeper this summer. They had been linked with Espanyol’s Joan Garcia but the Spanish side have not moved from their demands that his €30million (£25.2m) release clause be paid.

Arsenal were also linked with a move for Wolves’ Daniel Bentley potentially as a third choice stopper but have been unable to thrash out a deal with their Premier League rivals. They have however already signed one goalkeeper this summer.

The Gunners moved for Ajax starlet Tommy Setford earlier this summer but he is expected to be one for the future. Speaking after his move was made official, he said: “I want to thank Arsenal for this opportunity. I can’t wait to hit the ground running.

“I already know Ethan [Nwaneri] and Myles [Lewis-Skelly]. They’re great guys and I can have a good laugh with them. I spent a few camps with them, so I know them well. I just saw them for a quick meet and greet!

“I’m looking forward to learning new things next season and pushing myself to another level. For the short term, it’s very important now to get a feel for the group and start to know everyone.”