FC Barcelona are poised to sign Espanyol star, targeting a transfer to strengthen their squad for the future.
With the La Liga title secured and a domestic treble in hand, the club’s focus has shifted to addressing key positional needs, particularly in goal.
Sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick have reached a consensus on the urgency of signing a top-tier goalkeeper, with the chosen target’s €25m release clause seen as a cost-effective opportunity.
This move comes amid uncertainties surrounding the current goalkeeping situation, including Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury history and Wojciech Szczesny’s undecided future.
The player at the heart of this transfer push is Espanyol’s Joan Garcia, a 23-year-old Catalan goalkeeper who has emerged as a prime target, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Garcia has reportedly decided to leave Espanyol, making him an attainable prospect for Barcelona.
His €25m release clause is considered a bargain for a player of his potential, especially as he has also attracted interest from Premier League clubs.
Garcia is young, dependable, and has room for improvement – a perfect fit for Barca’s long-term thinking, investing in a position that has traditionally been the mainstay of their La Masia graduates and one of their most crucial disciplines.
Ter Stegen is a fixture, but both Deco and Flick’s planning, and Ter Stegen’s recent performances, along with age (33), call for a vision for the future.
Garcia also presents an opportunity for healthy competition and potentially a succession plan.
The news of Garcia’s arrival is expected to be a quick turnaround, and Barca has signaled there is rapid movement toward having the deal done, as they develop their financial strategy for a goalkeeper that does not overspend.
This acquisition could be a key first step in helping ensure Barcelona stays on top, and also has stability behind the defence over the short term in preparation for any challenges it faces in the upcoming season.
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