Everton want to sign Barcelona goalkeeper Neto
Everton are interested in signing Barcelona goalkeeper Neto this summer, according to Sport.
The 31-year-old is set to play his final game for the club against Eibar this weekend, with Barcelona planning to sell the keeper, per the report by the Spanish news outlet.
Neto is believed to have requested an exit in January, but that was turned down as the Catalans needed him as a backup to Andre Ter Stegen.
That has now changed, and Barcelona are reportedly demanding €16million [£13.7million] to let the Brazilian leave.
Neto wants game time
The driving factor behind Neto’s impending departure is his desire to play regularly again, having made just 16 appearances for Barcelona in two years.
Everton may find it difficult to lure him to Goodison Park, therefore, as he will know he faces a battle with England’s no.1 if he was to join.
It is possible that would not deter his interest, however, as he joined Barcelona with the intention of winning a regular place in the team, say Sport.
He is clearly ambitious and we could benefit from a character like that in the dressing room, while he is also described as “outstanding” on his Barcelona bio.
Neto would also add Champions League experience to the squad, and an ability to push Jordan Pickford for a place in the side should bring the best out of both shot-stoppers.
The mooted fee means Neto could be a bit of a bargain too, as he still has a number of years to play in his career.
It does carry risk though.
If Neto joins and sits on the bench for another year or two his value will depreciate even further, so the Toffees may be suited going for a cheaper alternative like Sergio Romero.
In other Everton news, the Toffees reportedly want to sign a £22.5m-rated Brazilian speed machine.