Barcelona have agreed a deal with Joan Garcia to sign the goalkeeper from Espanyol for €25 million (£21m/$28m).
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Barcelona agree €25m deal to sign Joan GarciaGoalkeeper would join from rivals EspanyolArsenal and Man Utd had been linked to himFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle with the Espanyol goalkeeper, according to but they are yet to strike a deal with the club. The 24-year-old had also attracted interest from several Premier League clubs including Arsenal, Manchester United and Aston Villa, but it was the Spanish club that moved decisively to trigger his release clause. If the Spanish national team calls him up, his cost might go up to €30m (£25m/$34m).
Garcia, La Liga's leading shot-stopper this season with 146 saves, has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Barcelona. However, a loan move to another club in Spain is under consideration due to salary cap limitations.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Barcelona's move for the shot stopper addresses growing uncertainty in their goalkeeping department. German star Marc-Andre ter Stegen, 33, has undergone multiple knee surgeries and has a contract until 2028 while Wojciech Szczesny, 35, may return to retirement despite being offered a one-year extension following his incredible performances for the team. On the other hand, third-choice Inaki Peña is not in the plans of coach Hansi Flick.
The Catalan club view Garcia as a long-term solution and is exploring the possibility of loaning him out next season to clubs such as Valencia or Betis.
WHAT JOAN GARCIA SAID
After Espanyol finished the season with a 2-0 win against Las Palmas, the goalkeeper told reporters: "If I leave, I'm proud to leave Espanyol in La Liga. Everyone knows the situation at the club and where I find myself."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?
Barcelona are expected to finalise Garcia's signing in the next few weeks. If salary cap constraints persist, he could be seen in different colours on loan in the upcoming season. The club is considering the futures of Ter Stegen and Szczesny before making a final decision on their goalkeeping depth.