BOURNEMOUTH HAVE signed goalkeeper Neto from Barcelona on a one-year deal.
The 33-year-old Brazilian joins the Cherries on a free transfer and becomes the south coast club’s fourth signing of the summer.
Neto, who made 21 appearances in three seasons at the Nou Camp, is expected to compete with Ireland international Mark Travers for the Bournemouth number one spot.
Neto joins Joe Rothwell, Ryan Fredericks and Marcus Tavernier as new additions for Scott Parker’s side, who marked their return to the Premier League with an impressive 2-0 win against Aston Villa at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday.
“To be able to attract a player of Neto’s calibre is very pleasing,” said Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake.
“This is a real coup for the club and we’re delighted he has chosen to join us.
“He has vast experience at the very top level of the game so I’m sure he will be a huge asset for us.”
Here's a photo of Neto standing by a net, because obviously... 📸 pic.twitter.com/nPwz9EYJMY
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) August 7, 2022
Neto began his career with Brazilian top-flight outfit Paranaense before stints at Fiorentina, Juventus, Valencia and Barcelona. He has one cap for Brazil.
Well that’s bad news for Travers and Ireland
@Johnny 5: I think he’ll actually keep his place. I thought it was bad news at first too, but Neto is pretty old. Coupled with the fact that I’m fairly sure Travers kept the most clean sheets in the Championship last year, so it would be a real kick in the teeth for him to be dropped to the bench with only a game played in the prem.
I’d say its just to add competition.
@Ultan Corcoran: Neto is only 33. Was on big wage at Barca so I am sure he is getting a significant wage again and they won’t pay that for him to sit on the bench
@dublindamo: it’s a 1 year contract so that would seem like it’s more to push Travers and have someone experienced. Travers was the only first team goalkeeper so they really needed backup.
@dublindamo: It’s not ancient by any means for a goalkeeper you’re right. But he’s not been a starting keeper since he played for Valencia, then opted to cash in on his career by playing second fiddle to Ter Stegen etc. Don’t think it’ll change here when they have a mature 23 or 24-y/o doing a fine job ever since Ramsdale and Begovic left them.
Feck sake! Travers has been outstanding for them and they go and bring in someone from Barca who will clearly start cause, well, he’s come from Barca. It must mean he’s great. 1 mistake by Travers and he’ll be out. Shameful stuff by Parker.