Arsenal are in ‘pole position’ to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer, Mundo Deportivo has reported.
The Gunners are poised to bring in a new back-up shot-stopper during the upcoming transfer window and remain keen on landing the Spaniard, who is a long-term target.
Garcia has a release clause worth £21m this summer, which could rise to £25m if he is not sold until the final 15 days of the transfer window.
However, Espanyol are reportedly ready to part ways with the goalkeeper early to avoid financial losses and are prepared to accept his departure for just £12.6m.
Arsenal Remain Keen on Joan Garcia
The Spanish shot-stopper is willing to join
Espanyol's Joan Garcia
Arsenal have identified Garcia as a replacement for Neto, who is expected to return to Bournemouth once his season-long loan at the Emirates ends next month.
The Brazilian was brought in on transfer deadline day after Arsenal failed to land Garcia last summer, as Espanyol were unwilling to negotiate below his £25m release clause.
The Spanish club are now in a more precarious financial position and may be unable to keep hold of Garcia, who is reportedly ‘aiming’ to join the Gunners once the market reopens.
Garcia, praised as 'one of the best goalkeepers in the world', has impressed on Espanyol’s return to La Liga this term and has played a huge role in helping the Barcelona-based club stay in the top division, keeping seven clean sheets and averaging nearly four saves per game.
Arsenal are now in advanced talks to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who could soon become their first summer arrival.
The Gunners are believed to have reached an agreement in principle with the Euro 2024 winner and are expected to trigger his £50m release clause.
Joan Garcia's Espanyol Stats (2024/25 La Liga)
Games
Goals conceded
Clean sheets
Minutes played
Sign up toThe GIVEMESPORT Reportto get exclusive daily updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ben Jacobs, Dean Jones and Tom Bogert sent straight to your inbox.
Bastian Schweinsteiger in action for Germany Related
Win a Signed Bastian Schweinsteiger Shirt with Market Madness
We're giving away a Manchester United and Germany National Team shirt signed by football legend Bastian Schweinsteiger
Statistics courtesy ofFbrefandTransfermarkt. Correct as of 1 6 -05-25.