Arsenal are still heavily invested in the potential signing of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, although they face competition from several clubs for his signature, Arsenal Insider understands.
Garcia is enjoying an outstanding season in La Liga, keeping seven clean sheets for a side sitting just seven points above the relegation zone.
Inevitably, this form has prompted interest from a host of clubs throughout Europe, with the Gunners one of those potential suitors who are tracking the shot-stopper.
Arsenal tried to sign Garcia last summer, but ultimately opted not to due to Espanyol’s excessive asking price for a goalkeeper who would’ve played second fiddle to David Raya.
Manchester United have made contact with Arsenal transfer target Joan Garcia
After choosing not to meet Espanyol’s demands, Arsenal opted to sign Neto on loan from Bournemouth instead, to provide Raya with some cover.
However, Neto won’t be returning to the Emirates next season, and thus, the Gunners are in need of a new number two to deputise for their Spanish keeper.
It’s long been believed that Garcia was the inevitable new understudy for Raya and Arsenal’s clear first-choice goalkeeper target, but given how the 23-year-old has developed this season, this is now looking more unlikely.
Spanish radio station COPE have reported that Manchester United have made contact over the signing of Garcia, with the Red Devils concerned about Andre Onana.
Reports last month suggested that Garcia is available for just £12 million, while COPE indicate that his release clause is £25 million.
At this price, a move to Old Trafford would make more sense, particularly if he’s deemed a replacement for Onana.
TBR Football’s transfer expert Graeme Bailey told Arsenal Insider that Arsenal still want the player, despite the rise in competition, although it’s looking less and less likely to materialise.
“Arsenal still want him, but they know the season he has had,” he said.
“He has progressed and taken a step forward this term – I’m told a number of clubs have made enquiries about him. There is a real chance he ends up elsewhere as a number one but Arsenal have not given up on it yet.”
Mikel Arteta needs to get a move on with Joan Garcia
A deal that had seemed inevitable now seems to be slipping away from Arsenal.
While Garcia can still very much be on the cards for the Gunners, they have to get a move on if they want to secure his services.
Personal terms have previously been mooted as already agreed, meaning in theory, all Arsenal have to do is activate the release clause in place.
Otherwise, they risk losing out to one of the many other potential suitors.
However, Mikel Arteta may ultimately struggle to present an appealing project to Garcia, who may be too good to be a number two at this point.
If other clubs can offer him a prominent role, Arsenal might not have realistic hope of landing him anyway.
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