Barcelona has taken a bold step towards securing its future by finalizing a deal for a 24-year-old La Liga standout.
Barcelona has made a significant move to strengthen their goalkeeping options, reaching a deal in principle to sign an in-demand 24-year-old from La Liga rivals Espanyol.
According to Cadena SER via AS, the club is ready to trigger the player’s €25 million release clause, which could increase to €30 million if the goalkeeper receives a call-up from Spain’s senior national team.
The news comes as Barcelona acts quickly amid uncertainty in the goalkeeping department, with the transfer window pegged to close on Monday, and they cannot afford to wait.
The player is Joan Garcia, who has been attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs, but he seems set to remain in La Liga, with Barcelona working quickly to get a deal in place.
Widely regarded as one of the best young goalkeeper prospects in Spain, the report adds that if Garcia does move to Barcelona the move would mean the club’s preparations for life beyond their current players.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, 33, faces an uncertain future after being subjected to three surgeries on his knee. Even though his contract runs until 2028, there are still doubts about his long-term reliability.
Wojciech Szczesny, the backup, is 35 years old and still undecided on retirement, accentuating the need for a reliable heir apparent.
The financial problems Barcelona faces may lead to Garcia being loaned out for the 2024/25 season, as Real Betis and Valencia are both interested in lending him for the season to give him first-team minutes.
This agreement is a step forward for Barcelona as they work through their internal salary cap, while being in a transitional period in goalkeeping.
Garcia’s youth and potential make him a clear strategic signing.
He gives the club a pathway to remaining relevant following the departure of ter Stegen.
While a final decision has not been solidified, this arrangement places Barcelona in a position to have a bright future in goal.
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