Arsenal ‘open talks’ with Barca man; reach decision on loan star’s future
Arsenal have ‘opened negotiations’ with Barcelona over the potential acquisition of goalkeeper Neto, and have reached a decision regarding Cedric Soares’ future at The Emirates.
The Gunners suffered a blow when first-choice goalkeeper Bernd Leno seriously injured his knee versus Brighton.
The German is expected to be on the sidelines for an extended period of time, leaving them light in the gloves department.
Emiliano Martinez has proved a capable understudy in cup competitions this year. Though having made less than 100 senior career appearances, is relatively inexperienced.
That has led Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to seek reinforcements, with Barcelona stopper Neto a target according to Sport.
The Spanish publication (via The Metro) report that Arsenal have ‘opened negotiations’ with Barcelona.
The Gunners were previously credited with interest in the ex-Valencia man, but were put off by Barcelona’s valuation.
Arsenal are described as preferring an initial loan deal is proposed, with an eventual option to buy. This is reportedly unacceptable on Barcelona’s end, however.
The article notes that the Spanish powerhouse are demanding an £18.6m (€20m) fee for the Brazilian. With Leno’s injury providing a greater need, The Gunners may now be willing to play ball.
Neto has rarely been in action since joining Barcelona, being forced into the back-up’s role behind Marc-André ter Stegen.
He was a consistent and capable performer at previous club Valencia, however, doing enough to earn his maiden senior Brazil cap in 2018 while at The Mestalla.
Soares decision
In other Arsenal transfer news, the club will reportedly aim to extend Cedric Soares’ loan until the end of the season, then sign him once he becomes a free agent.
The Portuguese right-back is currently on loan from Southampton, though is yet to make his Gunners debut.
With his contract expiring this summer, The Metro report that his temporary Arsenal stint will become permanent.
The Gunners are described as being ‘confident’ of reaching an agreement to extend his loan. And according to the cited ESPN report, plan to sign him on a free this summer.
Arteta is described as being ‘impressed’ by Soares’ professionalism and commitment, and could be rewarded with a ‘three-year deal.’
Meanwhile, Tottenham have been given the chance to sign a former Arsenal £25m target by a former director.
