Arsenal pushing hard to sign Joan Garcia, goalkeeper set for agent meeting to decide future
Arsenal are poised to sign a new backup goalkeeper during the summer transfer window.
The Gunners recruited Neto on loan from Bournemouth last summer, but the Brazilian made just one competitive appearance. The club have no plans of signing him permanently.
Instead, the focus is on landing Espanyol star Joan Garcia, who has been linked with Barcelona.
Mundo Deportivo (page 4) that Arsenal are one of the clubs ‘pushing hard’ to recruit the 24-year-old, who made an outstanding 145 saves in the Spanish top-flight last season.
Garcia is scheduled to meet his agent Juanma Lopez later this week to decide his next move. The Spanish ace has his sights on becoming a number one goalkeeper at a top club.
Arsenal could miss out on signing Garcia
The Gunners had earmarked Garcia as the perfect understudy for David Raya last summer. However, they could not secure an agreement due to Espanyol’s refusal to negotiate.
The situation has not changed this summer. After Garcia’s fantastic season in La Liga, Espanyol are unlikely to accept anything less than his £21 million buy-out clause.
Garcia agreed personal terms with the Gunners last year, but it could be tough to convince him this time.
The shot-stopper had no concerns playing second fiddle to Raya, but he is now determined to establish himself as the number one at a top European outfit next season.
Garcia reportedly prefers a move to the Premier League after turning down Barcelona.
However, Arsenal are unlikely to assure him a starting berth. On the contrary, Aston Villa could hand him a guaranteed starting spot next season with Emiliano Martinez expected to leave.
Bournemouth have decided against re-signing Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea after his loan stint. The Cherries are also admirers of the Spaniard ace and could make an approach too.
Aside from the duo, Manchester City and Newcastle United are also weighing up bids. Garcia could be a replacement for Ederson at the Cityzens. The Brazilian could move to the Saudi Pro League.
The Magpies could likewise assure Garcia with a starting spot next season ahead of Nick Pope. Keeping all this in mind, Arsenal could realistically miss out on Garcia despite their long-term interest.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
