Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are quite optimistic that Espanyol shot-stopper Joan Garcia wants to move to North London.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Arsenal retain interest in the services of Joan Garcia, and they are hopeful that the 23-year-old Spanish goalkeeper wants to complete a move to the North London club in 2025.
Joan Garcia came into the limelight following his breakthrough season at Espanyol last term, and he was a part of the Spanish squad that won the gold medal at the Olympics. The 23-year-old shot-stopper helped Espanyol secure a return to La Liga with his heroics and has cemented his spot as their number one.
Garcia’s exceptional rise resulted in significant interest from across Europe. Arsenal were one of the clubs keen on signing the youngster as they were looking for a new backup for their number one David Raya.
They were in talks with the young goalkeeper, and he had agreed to join the North London club last summer. But, Espanyol had no intentions of negotiating his departure, and they ended up rejecting their bids and blocking the move.
Arsenal retain interest in Joan Garcia, who is eager to join
Despite failing to secure his services in the recently concluded transfer window, the Gunners retain their interest in the services of the Spanish goalkeeper. They parted ways with Aaron Ramsdale during the summer. While they brought in Neto on loan from Bournemouth, he is a temporary fix, and they want someone who can take up that role in the long run.
Arsenal have identified Garcia as their preferred option to come in as their number two behind Raya. They continue to monitor the 23-year-old have a great relationship with the player as well as his representatives, having agreed personal terms back in the summer.
The North London club are expected to return for his services in the near future whether it will be during the winter or next summer is something to keep an eye on. For now, Arsenal are confident that Garcia wants to join them. While the Olympics 2024 gold medalist remains keen on making a move, he prefers joining them at a later date if possible.
