Arsenal Given Huge Encouragement in Pursuit of Key Transfer Target

Arsenal Revive Interest in Espanyol Goalkeeper Joan Garcia

Arsenal have received a major boost in their long-standing pursuit of Espanyol’s highly-rated goalkeeper, Joan Garcia. The 23-year-old shot-stopper has been on the Gunners’ radar for some time, and recent comments from Espanyol’s sporting director, Fran Garagarza, suggest that a summer move could be on the cards.

Arsenal’s Renewed Transfer Push for Joan Garcia

Last summer, Arsenal made an attempt to secure Garcia’s signature as they sought to reinforce their goalkeeping department following the departure of Aaron Ramsdale. The North London club tabled an offer of €20 million, but Espanyol rejected the bid, forcing Arsenal to seek a temporary solution by bringing in Bournemouth’s Neto on loan. With Neto’s loan set to expire at the end of the season, Arsenal are expected to make another move for Garcia during the upcoming transfer window.

Espanyol Open to Negotiations

Espanyol’s stance on Garcia’s future has now become clearer. His current contract contains a release clause of €25 million (£20.7 million), which increases to €30 million (£24.8 million) in the final 15 days of the transfer window. However, Garagarza has indicated that the club is willing to negotiate for a fair price if an offer arrives earlier in the summer.

Espanyol Director’s Statement on Garcia’s Potential Sale

When asked whether Espanyol would only sell Garcia if his release clause were triggered, Garagarza clarified that the club is open to discussions:

“Is it clause or nothing? No. In the summer window, with a call from Arsenal in the last week, it has to be that [clause]. But if you get an offer on June 14 that isn’t the clause but is close in fixed and variable amounts, Espanyol are not going to say no. We can’t say no.”

He further emphasized the importance of making a well-structured deal, stating that a significantly low bid would not be entertained.

“If a club comes with €8 million for Joan Garcia, that’s a bad sale, 100%. But the important thing is to know what we would do with that money. We have to work on the line of succession.”

Joan Garcia’s Stance on a Potential Move

For Garcia, a move away from Espanyol could be the logical next step in his career. The young goalkeeper has established himself as one of the most promising talents in La Liga and is eager to challenge himself at a higher level. Furthermore, his departure could provide a vital financial boost to Espanyol, who are currently battling to stay afloat in the league, sitting just one point above the relegation zone.

What Arsenal’s Goalkeeping Department Could Look Like

Should Arsenal succeed in their pursuit of Garcia, he would likely provide competition for David Raya, who has established himself as the club’s number one choice. With Ramsdale’s future at the club remaining uncertain, securing a capable backup in Garcia could be a smart move for Mikel Arteta’s side.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Arsenal and their efforts to finalize a deal that works for both parties. With Espanyol seemingly open to negotiations, the Gunners have been handed a golden opportunity to secure their long-term goalkeeping target.