Despite Fiorentina struggling to come to an agreement over the renewal of goalkeeper Neto’s contract the Brazilian has stated his desire to remain in Florence, while crushing any hope champions Juventus had of signing him.
The 25-year-old insisted that he would never join the Bianconeri given the rivalry, however, with South American receiving admiring glances due to his recent form for the Viola he future could still lay away from the Artemio Franchi.
“I am very focused on the series of games that we have coming in the following months not my contract renewal,” Neto told ESPN.
“At the end of last season Fiorentina asked me to renew but after initial negotiations we have still not found a deal, in any case my first choice remains Fiorentina.
“I do not want to leave, I’m fine and I have adapted perfectly to the city. I want to continue here in the best possible way. I do not even think of leaving Fiorentina.
“I confess I was not aware of any Juventus interest and I think it is just a rumour.
“I do not think I would go anyway. There is a big rivalry between the two teams and I think it will stay this way (laughs).
“I would not do it for the fans who I admire so much. My goal is to continue to play in Fiorentina.”
With speculation that he might earn a call-up to the senior Brazilian squad the former Atletico Paranarnse stopper insisted that he doesn’t see himself returning to his homeland anytime soon, even to improve his chances of involvement.
“I do not currently think of leaving Europe,” admitted Neto. “I’m playing in a great team and achieving great levels.
“If I said that I would go back there I’d be lying. I think that if I stay here at this level sooner or later I’ll go back to play for the national team.
“Dunga is a great coach and I respect his choices. The only thing I can do is work hard every day.”
Follow Kevin Pogorzelski on Twitter: @rabbitrabbiton
