Barcelona Plans Signing Espanyol Goalkeeper Joan Garcia Amid Multiple Club Interest

Joan Garcia, the 24-year-old Espanyol goalkeeper with a €25 million release clause, has attracted significant interest from FC Barcelona and other European clubs. Barcelona plans to pay his release clause and then loan him out, likely to Valencia, given the uncertain futures of their current goalkeepers Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny. Despite reports of Barcelona reaching an agreement in principle with Garcia, Espanyol's Sporting Director Fran Garagarza denies knowledge of such interest, and coach Manolo Gonzalez expresses surprise at the idea of Garcia joining Barcelona due to their rivalry and ter Stegen's established role. Gonzalez advises Garcia to prioritize playing time and happiness over money or club name, emphasizing the importance of being a starter rather than a backup. Garcia's future remains undecided as he considers offers from both Spanish and international clubs, with his personal desires playing a significant role. Barcelona sees Garcia as a strategic market opportunity due to his youth, height, presence, and proven experience, and is ready to keep him in Catalonia amid competition from Premier League clubs like Arsenal.