“Two days later, I said it didn’t make much sense” - Ex-Arsenal hero says he was in talks to return to Emirates this summer

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has said that he was offered a return to the North London club this summer. The Pole began his career at the club's Hale End academy but turned down the chance to return and instead hung up his gloves after his deal with Juventus expired.

The Polish goalkeeper came through the ranks at the club to make 181 appearances and kept 72 clean sheets, conceding 194 times. He also represented his nation 84 times, keeping 34 clean sheets and conceding 83 goals.

Speaking on a potential return to the club where he started his career, the shot-stopper told Polish outlet Meczyki (via The Express):

"Sentiment kicked in, and I was open to talks with Arsenal out of respect for the club. But when I started them, I knew it wasn't for me. It was all about logistics.

"Something very significant would have to happen for this move to happen. The Arsenal option came up before the Juventus contract was terminated. I said, 'OK, we can talk.' But, two days later, I said it didn't make much sense."

The North London side went on to sign Brazilian goalkeeper Neto from Bournemouth after they failed to secure the return of Szczesny.

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New Arsenal goalkeeper Neto pleased to join club

New Arsenal keeper Neto has shared his joy at signing for the North London side after completing his move.

The Brazilian joined on loan from South Coast club Bournemouth, on transfer deadline day on Friday. He made 63 appearances for the Cherries before his departure, conceding 99 goals and keeping 13 clean sheets.

Speaking via the Express, the 35-year-old said:

"I'm realising a dream in my life, a dream come true, and I'm really, really happy. I had two dreams as a kid to play for a football team. It was my team in Brazil, where I grew up and became a professional footballer, and also Arsenal."

Neto has represented an impressive selection of clubs, standing sentry between the sticks for Fiorentina, Juventus, Valencia and Barcelona.

He joins the Gunners with experience in lifting domestic league titles, with two Scudetto titles with the Old Lady of Turin. The 35-year-old will provide cover for David Raya as the North London side aim to win the league title for the first time in 21 years.