Arsenal Gain Boost in Pursuit of Espanyol Goalkeeper Joan Garcia

Espanyol Open to Negotiations for 23-Year-Old Shot-Stopper

Arsenal have received a major boost in their pursuit of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, as the Spanish club’s sporting director, Fran Garagarza, has admitted they are open to offers below his release clause—provided they arrive early in the transfer window.

Arsenal’s Longstanding Interest in Joan Garcia

The Gunners have been monitoring Garcia for a long time, especially after selling Aaron Ramsdale last summer. Their €20m bid was rejected late in the window, forcing the club to secure a loan move for Bournemouth’s Neto instead.

With Neto’s loan expiring in the summer, Arsenal are expected to reignite their pursuit of the 23-year-old Spaniard, who has a release clause of €25m (£20.7m)—a figure that rises to €30m (£24.8m) in the final 15 days of the window.

Espanyol’s Stance on Garcia’s Future

Speaking to Pericos Marca, Espanyol’s sporting director Fran Garagarza clarified the club’s stance on Garcia’s sale:

“Is it clause or nothing? No.”

“If Arsenal call in the last week of the window, then yes, we will demand the release clause.”

“But if an offer comes on June 14 that isn’t the full clause but is close in fixed and variable amounts, Espanyol won’t say no. We have to be smart about our approach.”

Garcia himself is open to a summer move, acknowledging that a transfer would benefit both him and the club, with Espanyol currently fighting relegation in La Liga 2.

What This Means for Arsenal

With Espanyol willing to negotiate, Arsenal now have the chance to secure Garcia’s services early in the transfer window, potentially for less than his €25m release clause.

Would Joan Garcia be the right backup for David Raya, or should Arsenal explore other goalkeeping options? Drop your thoughts in the comments!