Arsenal are exploring a move for Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto after hitting an impasse in talks over Espanyol’s Joan Garcia.
Garcia, 23, had been identified by Arsenal as a goalkeeper to provide competition for David Raya following Aaron Ramsdale’s departure to Southampton.
Ramsdale will join Southampton today in a deal worth £25million after undergoing a medical on Thursday night.
Arsenal had agreed personal terms with Garcia but were hopeful of knocking them down on their £26m asking price and clause. However, Espanyol did not have a ready-made replacement and have been sticking to their valuation after Arsenal proffered around £16m.
The deal for Garcia is not off completely but at this late juncture, with the clock ticking, they have had to explore alternative options.
Bournemouth rebuffed an approach from Nottingham Forest for Neto on Wednesday but having signed Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea on loan today may be open to negotiating with Arsenal.
They also have Mark Travers in reserve who has attracted attention from Crystal Palace in recent days after they agreed to sell Sam Johnstone to Wolves for £10m.
