- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Arsenal have changed their targets for the goalkeeping position with less than 24 hours to go before the transfer window closes.
Arsenal have made two additions in the form of Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, with the Newcastle United midfielder completing his move to the Emirates Stadium earlier this week.
However, the Gunners may not be done there with HITC understanding that Arsenal are considering a late move for Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman.
As well as a potential forward addition, Arsenal are also understood to be keen on bringing in a backup goalkeeper this summer.
Arsenal turn their attention to Bournemouth’s Neto
HITC understands that Arsenal have agreed a deal for goalkeeper Neto to arrive on-loan for the season, despite the Gunners being previously keen on Joan Garcia.
Arsenal had agreed terms with Garcia over a move to the Emirates Stadium but a deal could not be completed due to Aaron Ramsdale remaining in North London.
However, that now looks to no longer be the case for the Gunners with sources confirming to HITC that Southampton have agreed a fee with Arsenal for the signing of Ramsdale.
Wolves were also understood to be keen on Ramsdale but it is Southampton who are understood to be on the verge of winning the race for the English goalkeeper.
Despite the Gunners being open to a loan deal for the former Bournemouth goalkeeper, HITC understands that Arsenal were pushing for a permanent deal.
With a permanent deal for Ramsdale nearly done, the Gunners want a replacement and it now looks as if Bournemouth’s Neto could be an option for the North London club.
Arsenal refuse to pay Joan Garcia fee
Garcia’s release clause has increased to £30 million and that is a figure that HITC understands that Arsenal will not go anywhere near and are now considering a deal for Neto.
Brazilian goalkeeper Neto has lost his place in Bournemouth’s first-team squad with Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga moving to the South Coast this week and looks set to be the first choice for the Cherries.
Despite no longer being the first choice, Neto had been hailed by Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez who described the Brazilian as ‘unbelievable’ when speaking to the Bournemouth Echo.
Arsenal have now agreed terms with Bournemouth that will see Neto arrive on a season-long loan that does not include an option.
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