Arsenal were reportedly close to completing a deadline-day deal for Real Betis youngster Pablo Garcia, according to Racing Santander sporting director Chema Aragón.
The Gunners are understood to have explored a late move for the highly rated Spanish prospect as they looked to strengthen their squad before the summer transfer window closed.
Arsenal’s interest in Garcia reportedly progressed significantly, with Aragón claiming that the north London club came close to reaching an agreement for the player before the deadline passed.
Garcia has emerged as an exciting young talent within the Real Betis setup and has attracted attention from clubs looking to invest in promising players with significant long-term potential.
The reported Arsenal pursuit is another indication of the club’s continued focus on recruiting emerging talent. Mikel Arteta’s squad has undergone considerable change in recent transfer windows, with the club attempting to combine established stars with young players capable of developing into important first-team figures.
According to Aragón, however, the move ultimately failed to materialise despite Arsenal getting close to securing the midfielder
‘It seemed like it was done with ARSENAL, and then we came in too on loan,’ Aragon said at a press conference on Wednesday.
‘Yesterday things changed, and what seemed to be a loan turned into a shared ownership deal.
‘I would describe Pablo Garcia as Raul Gonzalez Blanco, what he has above all else is a nose for goal, that killer instinct, and he usually puts it away.
‘My biggest concern was losing that goal-scoring ability for a while after Andres Martin’s injury. When the real opportunity arose to sign that player (Garcia), we didn’t hesitate for a second.’
A move to Arsenal would have represented a major opportunity for the youngster, although remaining at Betis could also benefit his development if it means he can continue receiving regular senior football.
From ARSENAL‘s perspective, there is little reason to panic over the failed deadline-day move. Young players can remain on recruitment shortlists for months or even years, particularly when clubs have already established relationships with their representatives and parent clubs
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