Barcelona opinion: Should Barca sign Valencia’s Neto?

According to a report from Marca, Barcelona are in talks with Valencia over signing goalkeeper Neto in a swap deal which would see Jasper Cillessen head to Mestalla Stadium.

The Dutchman served as a second choice for the Catalan giants over a long course as he couldn’t beat Marc Andre Ter Stegen to a first-team spot.

Cillessen, who has been a regular first choice for Netherlands senior team, is now planning for a future away from Nou Camp next season in order to get more game time. Manchester United and Benfica are some of the other clubs interested in the former Ajax man.

Neto – a consistent performer for the Oranges

The Brazilian shot-stopper has been a valuable asset for Valencia in the past two seasons, making 80 appearances. Neto enjoyed a  brilliant 2018/19 season under Marcelino, winning the prestigious Copa Del Rey in the end. 

In the process, he kept 14 clean sheets across all competitions. The Brazilian also kept 10 clean sheets in 2018/19 La Liga season. He rose to prominence during his spell with Serie A side Fiorentina, playing more than 100 games.

Later he caught the interests of Juventus, with whom Neto played for two seasons. He has won six major honours in his entire career and made his debut for  Brazil’s senior team last year.

Should Barca sign Neto?

Ter Stegen proves to be irreplaceable at the moment owing to his sheer consistency over the years.

Since his deputy Cillessen is forcing an exit this summer, the Blaugrana are forced to find a back-up goalkeeper as it is too early to bet on reserves goalkeeper Inaki Pena. Neto would be a brilliant addition given his wealth of experience in Serie A and La Liga.

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Verdict

Barcelona signing the 29-year-old Neto in exchange for the wantaway Cillessen would be a smart move and they can provide a perfect back-up for their German shot-stopper.