Mikel Arteta - Arsenal
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Arsenal have ramped up their efforts to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia after holding further talks last week. The 23-year-old has been in exceptional form this season, earning consecutive La Liga Save of the Month awards and delivering a string of Man of the Match performances.
Newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta is well aware of Garcia’s abilities and is expected to make the final decision on whether to push ahead with the deal. Arsenal have been monitoring the Spaniard for some time, but an agreement on a transfer fee has yet to be reached.
Espanyol currently sit just two points above the relegation zone, and their league status could impact Garcia’s valuation. Should they drop to the second division, his price tag is expected to be around £13 million. However, if Espanyol avoid relegation, Arsenal could be asked to pay closer to £22 million, prompting the club to seek a compromise.
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Garcia has also attracted firm interest from Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, and Barcelona. However, the young goalkeeper is reportedly open to the challenge of competing for the No. 1 spot at Arsenal alongside compatriot David Raya.
Arsenal - Joan Garcia
Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia (Image credit: Getty Images)
Berta appears to be moving swiftly in the transfer market, having also held discussions with the representatives of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. The Spanish international remains a key target for Arsenal, with several other European giants, including Barcelona and Bayern Munich, also vying for his signature.
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Williams was strongly linked with a move last summer following an impressive Euro 2024 campaign, where he played a crucial role for Spain, scoring twice, including in the final against England. Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain were among the clubs keen on securing his services, but he ultimately decided to stay at Athletic Bilbao for another season.
So far this term, Williams has registered nine goals and seven assists in 38 appearances across all competitions. With renewed interest from Arsenal and Premier League rivals Liverpool and Chelsea, speculation over his future continues to grow.
Berta has taken proactive steps by meeting with Williams’ agent in preparation for a potential summer move. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has spoken publicly about the club’s need to strengthen its squad for the 2025/26 campaign, and Williams remains a priority target.
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