Arsenal corner flag
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly planning to bolster their squad with a new goalkeeper in the summer, with Atalanta’s Marco Carnesecchi emerging as a top target. While David Raya is expected to remain as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, the Gunners are looking for a more experienced option to serve as his backup and provide competition for the starting spot.
Currently, 35-year-old Neto serves as Raya’s backup, having joined from Bournemouth in the summer. However, Neto’s contract expires at the end of the season, and he is expected to depart once his deal runs out.
Though youngsters like Tommy Setford and Jack Porter are part of Arsenal’s goalkeeping setup, manager Mikel Arteta is keen to bring in a more seasoned option to fill the gap left by Neto’s departure.
READ MORE: Arsenal receive huge transfer boost as number one transfer target could be available in January
Italian outletTuttosport reports that Carnesecchi, a 24-year-old goalkeeper, is firmly on Arsenal’s radar. The Italian shot-stopper has made significant strides since joining Atalanta as a teenager in 2017, with loan spells at Trapani and Cremonese helping him secure a regular spot in the Serie A side’s first team. In the 2023/24 season, Carnesecchi made 27 appearances in Serie A and has already featured 15 times this season, establishing himself as a key player for the club.
Marco Carnesecchi
Marco Carnesecchi (Image credit: Getty Images)
Carnesecchi’s performances have also earned him valuable experience in European competition, with six appearances in the Champions League this season. Additionally, he has represented Italy at the Under-21 level, though he has yet to earn a senior cap.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW.ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Atalanta are not actively looking to sell their first-choice goalkeeper, and his contract runs until 2026. However, the prospect of losing Carnesecchi on a free transfer in the future could prompt the Italian club to consider selling him in the summer. With Arsenal’s interest, they may be tempted to cash in while they still can.
It is believed that Carnesecchi would seek assurances over his role at Arsenal, particularly regarding the level of competition he would face for the number-one spot. This concern stems from Neto’s situation, as the Brazilian has yet to make an appearance for the Gunners since his arrival in the summer.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal among Premier League clubs interested in £25m South American striker