Arsenal are unlikely to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia and are already 'working on alternatives' for the 24-year-old, The Athletic has revealed.
The Gunners are targeting a new shot-stopper to provide competition for David Raya next season, but may now be forced to look elsewhere, with Garcia seemingly staying in Catalonia.
The highly sought-after 'world-class' goalkeeper is now in advanced talks to join Barcelona on a permanent deal, with negotiations between the clubs at the final stages over a €25m (£21m) move.
Garcia had been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates over the past 12 months and was reportedly particularly wanted by Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal Face Joan Garcia Blow
Already working on alternatives to the 23-year-old
joan-garca-espanyol-2023-24-1719399504-140918
According to The Athletic, Arsenal are already drawing up a list of potential alternatives to Garcia as they continue their search for a new deputy to Raya:
“Arsenal are in the market for a new goalkeeper as an understudy for David Raya. Their long-standing interest in Espanyol’s Joan Garcia is well documented, but he appears to be headed elsewhere. Arsenal are already working on alternatives.”
The Gunners are expected to be active in the summer market, with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi now set to become their first signing.
The Euro 2024 winner is believed to have reached an agreement in principle over a move to the Emirates, with Arsenal ready to pay his €60m (£51m) release clause.
Arteta’s side are also exploring striker options and are believed to be in talks over the signing of RB Leipzig starlet Benjamin Sesko.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners have gathered extensive information on the 22-year-old striker’s release terms and could secure a deal for less than the reported €100m (£84m) price tag this summer.
Joan Garcia's Espanyol Stats (2024/25 La Liga)
Games
Goals conceded
Clean sheets
Minutes played
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Statistics courtesy ofTransfermarkt. Correct as of 0 3 -06-25.