The competition for the signature of RCD Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has intensified as several top clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester City, have begun to circle the 23-year-old shot-stopper. Arsenal, who previously attempted to sign Garcia last summer, are believed to be leading the charge for his signature amid reports of interest from across Europe. The north London club missed out on Garcia during the last transfer window but are now gearing up for another attempt.
According to industry insider reports, Manchester City are also very much interested, actively seeking a replacement for their veteran goalkeeper Ederson. Garcia, who has been pivotal for Espanyol this season, remains on City's list along with Porto's Diogo Costa. Garcia's contract with Espanyol runs until 2028 and includes several performance-related bonuses which could raise his value significantly.
While Arsenal may have the edge due to their prior interest, Manchester City presents a formidable challenge. Reports suggest City could offer Garcia more first-team opportunities, especially with Ederson's future at the club uncertain following discussions of potential moves to Saudi Arabia. For Garcia, moving to the Etihad Stadium, known for its competitive squad and ambition, could present opportunities for personal growth and trophy success.
Garcia has been exceptional this season, recording four clean sheets across 25 La Liga appearances and ranking among the league leaders with 93 saves made. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, drawing interest not just from England but also clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, who are reportedly eager to take advantage of the situation.
"Espanyol would prefer a 'good sale', but they are open to negotiating below the release clause - except in the case of Barca, where they refuse to make any concessions," reported SportsView. This does cast doubts on Barcelona’s potential efforts to acquire the goalkeeper, which have been described as complicated due to Espanyol's reluctance to deal with their city rivals.
Notably, Garcia's release clause has been set at €30 million (£24.7m), though Espanyol is willing to negotiate for clubs other than Barcelona. Garcia has stated, "It’s complicated" when asked about his potential move to Barcelona, indicating his focus on his current team and aspirations for the future.
Garcia’s coach at Espanyol, Manolo González, expressed confidence in the goalkeeper's abilities, saying, "I would have paid his clause. He is a goalkeeper who, at his age (23 years) and with his footplay, gives many solutions." His efforts have certainly made him one of the most sought-after goalkeepers across Europe.
Espanyol’s sporting director, Fran Garagarza, has acknowledged the club's need to offload one of their key players, and all signs indicate Garcia could be the first to go. With clubs expressing strong interest, the next few months could be pivotal for Garcia’s career as the summer transfer window approaches.
Arsenal remains optimistic they can land Garcia, juxtaposed against the backdrop of their current number one, David Raya, who has solidified his position during the last season. It will be interesting to see how Arsenal navigates this transition, especially considering they had expressed serious intentions to sign Garcia last summer.
On the other hand, City is weighing its options with Diogo Costa and could make moves for Garcia if their pursuit of the Porto keeper does not pan out. Knowing the allure of the Premier League and the potential for more consistent playing time, Garcia will need to decide carefully as several elite clubs pursue his talents.
Espanyol seems to be placing their hopes on negotiating favorable terms for Garcia, aiming for the best possible outcome as they prepare for what looks to be heated summer transfer discussions. The coming months are likely to shed light on where Garcia’s future will lie, with both Arsenal and Manchester City likely keeping tabs on the promising goalkeeper.