After finally delivering the signing of Mikel Merino, it’s clear that Arsenal are not quite done before Friday’s transfer deadline, which is approaching very quickly.
Aaron Ramsdale is set to leave Arsenal, meaning that the Gunners will need to find backup for David Raya in the next 48 hours.
Also, Arsenal remain in the market for a new forward, someone who can add depth and quality to their attack.
Mikel Arteta isn’t thought to want a player who will rock the boat – Arsenal aren’t going to sign Nico Williams.
Arteta is chasing a Leandro Trossard type, someone who is seen as Premier League ready and experienced.
That being said, ‘not rocking the boat’ is also an essential criteria for the new goalkeeper Arsenal sign as Raya’s number two before the end of Friday.
To that end, Arsenal are pushing to sign Joan Garcia, who looks like he will be in north London before the week ends.
However, in what could be his last performance for Espanyol on Wednesday evening, Garcia certainly didn’t look distracted at all.
Arsenal target Joan Garcia delivers exceptional performance vs Atletico Madrid
If there were ever any question marks about Garcia’s readiness for the Premier League, well he certainly answered them on Wednesday night.
23-year-old Garcia started for Espanyol in their La Liga match away to Atletico Madrid, facing the likes of Julian Alvarez up top.
(L-R) Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid, Marash Kambulla of Espanyol, Koke of Atletico Madrid, Joan Garcia of Espanyol during the LaLiga EA Spo…
And not only was Garcia’s display labelled as ‘perfect’ by local media, he was also awarded the player of the match award.
The £25m-rated goalkeeper made seven saves and was crucial in denying Atleti, which is no easy feat away at the Metropolitano.
Arsenal are ready to launch a bid for Garcia, who they envision as their new number two for Raya.
The Gunners could even recruit two goalkeepers before Friday’s deadline, given they’re also after a homegrown third-choice.
Arsenal are hoping to sign Sam Tickle, an impressive England youth international to complete their set – a proper revamp of their goalkeeping department.
Although Ramsdale was superb cover for Raya, the situation wasn’t harmonious and the former number one was desperate to play regular football again.
And whilst Garcia won’t surrender his desire to play football upon heading to Arsenal, he seems willing to patiently wait for his opportunity whilst working with Inaki Cana.
