According to a report from TBR, Arsenal might struggle to secure the services of Joan Garcia. Mikel Arteta is keen on adding the Espanyol shot-stopper to his squad but with multiple top clubs keen on his signature, they will find it difficult to convince him to be David Raya’s deputy.
Garcia has come up the ranks at the Spanish club and has been a part of their first team since the summer of 2021. After years of hard work, he finally broke into their starting XI in the second half of last season and managed to cement his spot in the team with his consistent performances.
Joan Garcia helped them secure his spot in the Spanish top flight and has been their go-to man in goal this season. Espanyol sit 13th in the table, seven points clear of the drop zone, and with just five games remaining, they are expected to comfortably avoid relegation.
Garcia has played a big part in it as he has only let in 41 goals in his 32 league outings and has kept a clean sheet on seven occasions. His performances have attracted a lot of interest from across Europe. The 23-year-old, who was a part of Spain’s Olympics triumph last summer, could be on the move to a bigger club this time around.
Arsenal are one of the clubs that are very keen on signing him. The North London club wanted to add him to their squad last summer but they were unable to get a deal over the line. Following the departure of Aaron Ramsdale, they ended up signing Neto on loan to cover for Raya.
The 35-year-old set to return to his parent club, the Gunners have their eyes set on Garcia. They see him as an ideal fit for their project, believing he can not only serve as Raya’s understudy but also challenge for a starting spot, and eventually take over as their first-choice goalkeeper.
But Arsenal will struggle to convince him to join them as there are quite a few top clubs that want him. Manchester United are also interested in the 23-year-old and they see him as an upgrade on Andre Onana, who has struggled to get back to his best since moving to Old Trafford.
With the Reds Devils willing to offer him a leading role and other clubs in England, Italy and Germany offering his first-team chances, Arsenal have realised that they find it difficult to strike a deal for him.
While the final decision rests with Garcia, it’s clear why a move elsewhere could be tempting, offering him the chance to be an undisputed starter. Meanwhile, he has a release clause worth just £25 million, which makes it easier for interested clubs as it represents excellent value.
