Brazil international Neto has joined us from Bournemouth on a season-long loan.
The 35-year-old has made 63 appearances for the Cherries since joining them in August 2022 and was named club captain just six months later.
After signing for us, he said: “I’m realising a dream in my life, a dream come true, and I’m really, really happy.
“I had two dreams as a kid to play for a football team. It was my team in Brazil, where I grew up and became a professional footballer, and also Arsenal. And now I’m realising it! I’m a really lucky person.
“To all the supporters of Arsenal, I’d just like to say I’m one more fan here. My dream has come true, I’m really happy. Depend on me, I’ll give more than 100% to give everything for Arsenal.”
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Neto started his youth career with Cruzeiro before moving to fellow Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, where he made his professional debut at the age of 19 in August 2009. The following campaign saw him become a regular in the Athletico side, making 34 league appearances.
In January 2011, he moved to Italy, signing for Fiorentina. Following his debut in November 2011, Neto went on to make 101 appearances in a successful four-year spell with I Viola before moving to Juventus in 2015.
He also notably kept a clean sheet in his full debut for Juve, in a 4-0 Coppa Italia victory over Turin rivals Torino. During his two seasons there, Neto won five trophies, which included back-to-back domestic league and cup doubles.
In July 2017, Neto moved to Spain, signing for Valencia. In two seasons with the La Liga side, he made 80 appearances helping his side win the 2019 Copa del Rey, before moving to Barcelona ahead of the 2019/20 season.
During his time with Barca, Neto won the Copa Del Rey for the second time in his career when Barca lifted the trophy in 2021. After two seasons with Barcelona, Neto moved to the Premier League, signing for Bournemouth in August 2022.
The experienced goalkeeper was included in the Brazil squad for 2012 Olympic Games in London, as well as his country’s squad for 2015 Copa America held in Chile.
Neto is not eligible for Saturday’s match against Brighton & Hove Albion, and will join up at Sobha Realty Training Centre next week. He will wear the number 32 shirt.
Everyone at Arsenal welcomes Neto to the club.
The transfer is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.
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