Botafogo aren’t backing down from their plan to sign Neto, [even with John’s transfer to West Ham now off the table](https://sportwitness.co.uk/disappointment-for-west-ham-as-player-turns-them-down-to-win-more-titles-instead/).
Fresh reports from Botafogo outlet [Canal do TF and multiple local reports](https://www.antenadosnofutebol.com.br/botafogo/botafogo-ira-manter-contratacao-de-neto-apos-permanencia-de-john-nesta-janela-de-transferencias) claim that Botafogo will go ahead with the signing regardless of John’s unexpected stay.
The 36-year-old has already ripped up his contract with Bournemouth, flown to Rio, passed medicals, and is just waiting to put pen to paper. One way or another, he’s not going back to England.
The deal was practically done at the start of the week, and the club see no reason to change course now. Neto is set to sign a two-year contract, with a six-month extension clause tied to performance targets.
So whether there’s a vacancy or not, Neto is going. Botafogo saw a chance to add an experienced, low-cost keeper and moved quickly. Now they’ve got a former Premier League captain in the building.
Bournemouth fans can look back on a short but respected chapter: two seasons, captain’s armband, and a clean break before heading home.