TBR Football can exclusively reveal that Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has made a decision on which club he wants to join.
Garcia has been one of the most sought-after goalkeepers ahead of the summer transfer window, attracting interest from both La Liga and the Premier League.
Manchester United were linked with Garcia, as they look to sell Andre Onana. Mikel Arteta’s side have also been linked with him since last summer with reports stating that Garcia had agreed to a contract with Arsenal.
But recent reports have claimed that Newcastle would be Garcia’s first choice given Raya’s secured spot in the Arsenal XI.
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
TBR Football can now bring you the latest on Garcia’s decision regarding his next club.
Joan Garcia makes decision amid offers from Newcastle, Arsenal and Aston Villa
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that the Spanish goalkeeper has rejected offers from Arsenal, Aston Villa and Newcastle in favour of Barcelona.
Garcia has agreed terms with the La Liga giants which will see him join from city rivals Espanyol.
As per TBR Football sources, the English clubs were informed about the player’s decision last week.
Barcelona do not intend to loan out Garcia, with the 24-year-old set to compete with Marc Ter Stegen for the starting role.
Joan Garcia hailed as one of the best by the Spanish media
Losing out on Garcia will come as a blow to Premier League clubs given how highly rated he is.
Garcia has been phenomenal this season, garnering praise from across La Liga, with the Spanish press labelling him as ‘one of the best’.
Dario AS said the following about him: “Perfect in the air, he once again demonstrated that, in the eyes of everyone except Luis de la Fuente, he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Not in Europe, in the world. It’s that clear.”
Newcastle could turn to Caoimhin Kelleher after missing out on Joan Garcia
Newcastle, who were considered to be in a strong position to sign him will now have to look at other options to replace Nick Pope.
Liverpool star Caoimhin Kelleher is an option for Newcastle, with the club showing interest in the Irishman.
Kelleher recently admitted that he sees himself as a number one, good enough to be playing every week further fuelling transfer talks.
He remains a strong option for clubs seeking to bolster their goalkeeping department.