Aston Villa want to sign £21m Arsenal target as replacement for their iconic player

Gidibam Web6 days ago

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Image credit: Getty Images

Aston Villa have entered the race to sign highly-rated Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, setting up a potential transfer battle with Arsenal this summer. The Midlands club are preparing for a major squad reshuffle under Unai Emery, with first-choice goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez now reportedly available for transfer.

Arsenal had a bid for Garcia rejected last summer and remain interested in the 24-year-old Spaniard, who is widely regarded as one of La Liga’s most promising goalkeepers. Garcia has a €25 million (£21m) release clause in his current contract, which could rise to €30 million (£25.2m) if he earns a call-up to Spain’s senior national team.

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Interest in Garcia has intensified across Europe, with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona also monitoring the situation. Arsenal’s previous attempt to land the shot-stopper was rebuffed, but the Gunners are expected to reignite their pursuit as they consider long-term options in goal.

Arsenal - Joan Garcia — ***Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia (Image credit: Getty Images)***

Villa’s growing interest in Garcia coincides with speculation surrounding the future of Emiliano Martinez, who is reportedly attracting attention from several top European clubs. The 32-year-old appeared emotional during Aston Villa post-match lap of appreciation at Villa Park on Friday night, following their 2-0 victory over Tottenham — possibly signalling the end of his time at the club.

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Martinez, who joined Aston Villa from Arsenal in a £20 million deal in 2020, has been a key figure for Emery but could now be on the move. According to reports from TyC Sports, Martinez has received firm offers from two top European sides and is also being courted by clubs in the Saudi Pro League. However, the World Cup-winning goalkeeper is believed to prefer remaining in Europe and playing in the Champions League.

Unai Emery, when asked about Martinez’s future, offered a cryptic response after the win over Spurs: “We will see. Of course, it is the last match here [this season] and I don’t know. We will see about the team, the players, but of course, they are responding on the field.”