Reports: Juventus closing in on reunion with Neto as new backup goalkeeper
Juventus suddenly need a new backup goalkeeper. It seems like an old friend has emerged as the top candidate.
GIRONA, SPAIN - JANUARY 29: Norberto Murara Neto of Arsenal FC was seen at the UEFA Champions League match between Girona FC and Arsenal FC on January 29, 2025. (Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images
Juventus front office members may have not anticipated needing to scout for a new backup goalkeeper so soon after signing Kamil Grabara last summer. However, a recent development suggests that a reunion with Norberto Neto could soon be a reality for the Bianconeri.
According to Sky Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio and Italian journalist Matteo Moretto, Juventus is reportedly making progress in bringing back Neto following his ten-season career with five different clubs. Neto, now 37 years old, spent last season with Botafogo and is currently a free agent after his contract expired in July.
The former backup goalkeeper for Gianluigi Buffon during their title-winning seasons in 2016 and 2017, Neto has played in Spain and England before returning to Brazil in 2025. Juventus originally signed Neto in 2015 to replace Marco Storari as Buffon's backup after he spent two years with Fiorentina.
Neto appears to be the top choice to replace Grabara, who will likely be out for the remainder of the 2026-27 season. This move would effectively end the one-year audition periods for both Grabara and Guglielmo Vicario, who arrived on loan this summer. Neto has been the most consistent name mentioned as a potential replacement for Grabara, indicating his availability and willingness to return to a club he has previously worked with.
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