Arsenal have confirmed their interest in £21 million goalkeeper, positioning him as a potential replacement should Aaron Ramsdale depart this summer.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that Garcia, who has a release clause of €25 million (£21.2 million), is high on Arsenal’s list of targets.
Aaron Ramsdale’s future at Arsenal remains uncertain, with speculation around his potential exit. However, there has been little progress on this front, especially with Newcastle United reportedly pulling out of the race to sign him. Arsenal are hoping to fetch at least the amount of Garcia’s release clause from Ramsdale’s sale.
Joan Garcia has garnered attention following an impressive second half of the 2023/24 season with Espanyol. Despite a slow start, he cemented his position as the first-choice goalkeeper by maintaining an 82.5% save percentage and significantly outperforming his post-shot expected goals against. Garcia also displayed strong aerial abilities, collecting a high number of crosses (2.14 per 90 minutes) and boasting a cross prevention rate of 16.1%.
Garcia’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid and several English clubs monitoring his progress. Despite the transfer speculation, Garcia has expressed contentment with his current situation at Espanyol, urging fans to remain calm and supportive.
Arsenal’s interest in Garcia is also influenced by the connection between the goalkeeper and Arsenal’s goalkeeper coach, Inaki Cana, who follows Garcia on social media. This link suggests that Cana sees potential in Garcia’s abilities and suitability for Arsenal.
Garcia has been called up for the Spanish Olympic team, further highlighting his growing reputation. His height (6’3″) and command in the penalty area make him an attractive prospect for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their goalkeeping options.
As Arsenal contemplate the possible sale of Aaron Ramsdale, Joan Garcia of Espanyol has emerged as a leading candidate to fill the void.
With his impressive performances and connections within the Arsenal coaching staff, Garcia represents a strategic acquisition for the Gunners. However, much depends on the developments surrounding Ramsdale’s future and the ongoing interest from other clubs in Garcia’s services.
