Arsenal could land the next Iker Casillas as Mikel Arteta targets Aaron Ramsdale replacement

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Arsenal could be set to part ways with goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, as the England International seeks out regular football.

Arsenal rejected a loan offer from Ajax as they aim to seal a permanent exit for Ramsdale this summer, but despite his lack of game time he will need replacing.

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny is now a free agent, but fans are divided over whether the veteran is suited to Mikel Arteta’s system.

A younger option could be an ideal fit, with Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia linked as a long-term option to replace him.

The Spaniard was impressive as Espanyol gained promotion back to La Liga, but he may not come cheaply. Nevertheless, he could develop into a top-class option in the future.

• READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Arsenal target Joan Garcia compared to Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas

Garcia developed at Espanyol after coming through the youth academy, and he was part of a goalkeeping roster with several strong options over the years.

One other backup option whom he trained alongside was Oier Olazabal, who has also played for Barcelona, Real Sociedad and Levante.

Olazabal knows Garcia well from their time together, and he previously compared the 23-year-old to legendary Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

“It’s hard for me to find someone who stops that much. “He is very complete. Football requires you to be good at everything. He has the reflexes of Casillas and the aerial game of an English or Premier League goalkeeper,” he stated of Garcia earlier this year.

Joan Garcia is perfect for Mikel Arteta’s system

Garcia statistically ranks as strong in the air, and is also comfortable playing in a similar style to David Raya, which requires him to be strong with his feet and aggressive off his line.

Casillas was one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation and was renowned for his quick reflexes and shot-stopping in high-pressure situations.

Garcia has earned praise for emulating the Spanish great, but is stylistically different given his supreme aerial ability, and could be the ideal backup to David Raya, and could develop into a long-term number one.

The problem with a deal now is that Garcia will not play regularly at Arsenal, which could stunt his development, and it remains to be seen whether Arteta will push for a deal.