La Liga champions Real Madrid are reportedly mulling over a move for 23-year-old Spanish goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer.
According to a report by Spanish outlet AS, Joan Garcia is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The Merengues are scouring the market for a goalkeeper heading into the summer transfer window. And they have set their sights on the 23-year-old RCD Espanyol goalkeeper, with Premier League clubs also interested in him.
Who is Joan Garcia?
Joan Garcia has risen in prominence after his breakthrough in the 2023/24 season. A native of Sallent de Llobregat, he began his youth career at CE Manresa before spending some time at CF Damm. However, the Spaniard has seen his stock rise in his homeland during his spell with RCD Espanyol.
The 23-year-old joined Espanyol as a 15-year-old in July 2016 before progressing through the ranks at the Catalan club. Garcia made his first-team debut in December 2021 but had to wait two more years to rise in prominence at RCD Espanyol. And the breakthrough came in the 2023/24 campaign.
While Garcia was not the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for Espanyol, he was impressive in his 19 outings, conceding only nine goals while keeping 11 clean sheets. The Spanish goalkeeper’s progress in the 2023/24 season has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Real Madrid.
Madrid move on the horizon?
Real Madrid might delve into the market for a goalkeeper in the summer transfer window. The Merengues are in a spot of bother over Andriy Lunin’s long-term future. While they were closing in on sealing an agreement with the Ukrainian international over a new contract, he is mulling over a summer departure.
Recent reports have linked Lunin with many high-profile clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. So, it behoves Real Madrid to identify potential options to replace the backup shot-stopper, with Joan Garcia emerging as a viable target for the reigning La Liga champions.
The report has mentioned that Premier League clubs are also interested in securing Joan Garcia’s services. That might turn his head as the 23-year-old Spaniard can be a first-choice goalkeeper for a mid-table Premier League club. However, the opportunity to represent Real Madrid is also appealing.
