MEDICAL COMPLETED: Europe’s most aggressive striker has just completed medical to join Arsenal as the official announcement is scheduled to hold soon
Arsenal are closely monitoring Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who is also attracting interest from Barcelona and Aston Villa, according to Marca (page 9).
The Gunners are preparing for a busy summer transfer window. A backup goalkeeper could be one of the priorities, with Neto poised to return to Bournemouth after his loan stint.
Garcia has been a long-term target for the Gunners, and Marca report that they are one of the clubs that ‘follow him closely’ alongside Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villa.
Espanyol are reluctant to accept anything less than Garcia’s £25 million clause this summer, and the value could increase with a maiden Spain call-up on Monday.
Arsenal set to face transfer tussle for Garcia
The Gunners were in a strong position to recruit the 24-year-old last summer. They agreed personal terms with the shot-stopper, but a deal did not materialise before the deadline.
Arsenal took a prolonged period to offload Aaron Ramsdale to Southampton. They made a late £17m offer for Garcia, but Espanyol wanted his release clause (£25m for the final 15 days) to be paid in full.
Mikel Arteta’s side opted to sign a short-term alternative in Neto but will likely return for Garcia. The competition appears fierce this time, with Barcelona and Real Madrid in the mix.
However, the main threat could come through Premier League rivals Villa. Unai Emery’s side could guarantee him an assured starting role with Emiliano Martinez ‘expected‘ to depart.
It is left to be seen whether Arsenal can pull off a deal amid the increased competition. As per Mundo Deportivo, the club may have to pay another £4m extra if Garcia is called up by Spain.
Garcia would be a fantastic understudy for compatriot David Raya. He has made 141 saves in La Liga this campaign with a success rate of 73 percent. He still has a significant role to play this weekend as Espanyol look to avoid relegation. A defeat against Las Palmas will see them relegated if Leganes beat Real Valladolid.
Aside from his terrific reflexes, the Spaniard has also impressed with his long ball distribution and high claims in the box. He could be seen as a long-term successor to Raya for the number one role.
Garcia is one of the best shot-stoppers in Europe. Arsenal must try their best to persuade him to join.
