Arsenal are close to signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia as a challenger to David Raya, according to the Independent journalist Miguel Delaney.
The 24-year-old is also on the radar of Bournemouth and Aston Villa ahead of the summer transfer window, but the Gunners remain favourites in the race and are closing in on a deal.
Arsenal will be sending Neto back to the Cherries at the end of his loan deal, and manager Mikel Arteta wants a goalie capable of giving Raya a run for his money.
Having made the most saves (135) so far in La Liga this season, Garcia fits the bill and Real Madrid are also eyeing him after he emerged as the man of the match when Espanyol shocked them in February.
Manager Manolo Gonzalez recently likened the Arsenal target to Lionel Messi due to his impact in the team, and the Gunners need such a quality option on the bench to provide cover for their first-choice goalie.
They agreed personal terms with Garcia last August as he was very open to the move, and his mind has not changed as it appears he fancies his chances of playing ahead of Raya.
Given that the Espanyol star is eyeing a place in the Spanish national team, seeking a move to the North London club is a bold call on his part, and sporting director Andrea Berta will be hoping to quickly get the deal over the line.
The Italian has also scheduled a fresh meeting with the representatives of Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha as Arsenal look to pip Manchester United to the services of the Brazilian, and an exciting summer transfer window could be on the cards for the Gunners.
