Arsenal Eye Joan Garcia as Potential Goalkeeper Signing
Arsenal are expected to pursue a new goalkeeper in the upcoming summer transfer window, as Neto is set to return to Bournemouth following the expiration of his loan spell. The Gunners are likely to revisit a target from last summer, having previously attempted to secure a deal before settling for a temporary agreement with their Premier League counterparts.
In 2024, Arsenal made an unsuccessful attempt to sign Joan Garcia from Espanyol. The club only made a concrete move for the 23-year-old after Aaron Ramsdale was sold to Southampton. However, Espanyol insisted on activating Garcia’s €30 million release clause, a demand Arsenal ultimately declined.
Despite this setback, Arsenal remain keen on bringing Garcia to the Emirates. Recent reports suggest they are frontrunners to sign him this summer, though the process is expected to be challenging.
Strong Competition for Garcia’s Signature
According to journalist Eduardo Inda on El Chiringuito de Jugones (via Fichajes), Espanyol would prefer to sell Garcia to Real Madrid. Barcelona are also reportedly interested in the goalkeeper, but the Catalan club is reluctant to sell to their arch-rivals.
Inda stated, “Joan García is one of the standout performers in La Liga. He’s an exceptional goalkeeper with an affordable €30 million release clause, which could drop to €15 million if Espanyol are relegated. Espanyol has communicated to Real Madrid their preference to sell to them rather than Barcelona.”
Garcia’s Ambitions and Arsenal’s Challenge
Reports from Spain indicate that Garcia is seeking a starting role at his next club, which could complicate Arsenal’s pursuit. The Gunners would likely sign him as a backup to David Raya, who has been one of the Premier League’s top goalkeepers over the past 18 months. Similarly, Real Madrid’s interest is complicated by the presence of Thibaut Courtois, their established first-choice goalkeeper.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal will need to navigate these challenges if they are to secure Garcia’s services.
(Photo: Joan Garcia celebrates for Espanyol – Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
