Opinion

Forget Gyokeres, Arsenal have been handed major transfer boost for another target after what happened in Europa League final

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Arsenal could benefit massively from Tottenham’s victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final.

Spurs ran out 1-0 winners over United in Bilbao, with the Lilywhites securing their first trophy for 17 years in the process.

A first-half goal from Brennan Johnson was enough for Ange Postecoglou’s side to claim the silverware, in what was a poor match that lacked quality.

Arsenal fans were unsurprisingly frustrated by Tottenham’s victory, although they could indirectly benefit from the outcome of the final.

United will not play in Europe in any capacity next season, which could be great news for the Gunners in their pursuit of one specific target.

Arsenal FC v Newcastle United - Premier League
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Manchester United’s Europa League defeat could help Arsenal sign Joan Garcia

While disappointed about their local rivals winning a trophy, Arsenal fans were buoyed by United’s defeat because of its potential impact on Viktor Gyokeres.

Gyokeres has been heavily linked with both the Gunners and the Red Devils, but he may now opt for a move to the Emirates instead of Old Trafford, due to the promise of Champions League football.

The Swedish number nine isn’t the only player Arsenal are reportedly competing with United for this summer.

United are interested in Arsenal target Joan Garcia, who has been making waves with his performances in La Liga this season.

While Ruben Amorim may still look to sign Garcia as a replacement for Andre Onana, the reality is that the Spaniard may no longer be attracted to the prospect of plying his trade in Manchester.

The north-west club will also reportedly be financially hamstrung without European football, and it’s very possible that they will now settle with Onana and focus on addressing other more pressing areas of their squad with their limited resources.

Garcia could be available for as little as £12 million, and Arsenal should now be better placed than their rivals to complete the deal.

Rcd Espanyol V Getafe Cf - La Liga Ea Sports
Photo By Javier Borrego/Europa Press via Getty Images

How does Joan Garcia profile statistically?

Arsenal need to find a deputy for David Raya, or someone who can perhaps compete with him in the long-term.

While the former Brentford man has played every Premier League minute this season, the Gunners can’t depend on that happening again and need a competent back-up in case of emergency.

Garcia looks the perfect option, with his statistical profile closely resembling Raya.

Joan Garcia’s La Liga Statistics 2024/25
Appearances37
Goals Conceded51
Clean Sheets7
Saves per 903.68
Save Percentage75%
Crosses Claimed per 901.65
Post-Shot xG Against – Goals Against+7.1
Joan Garcia’s La Liga Statistics 2024/25 – via FBRef – correct as of 22/05/2025

Preventing seven goals that should’ve been converted against him this season, the Espanyol number one is an astute shot-stopper.

However, he’s also remarkably effective at claiming crosses, which is Raya’s greatest attribute, and relieves pressure on Arsenal’s backline on numerous occasions throughout matches.

Now with the advantage over United, if the Gunners are able to pull this deal off, it would be an incredibly smart acquisition.