Manchester City have held initial talks for Joan Garcia, with the Arsenal target emerging on Pep Guardiola’s list of potential Ederson Moraes successors.
According to a report by Caught Offside, Manchester City are eager to bring in a new goalkeeper in the summer as a potential replacement for Ederson Moraes. Pep Guardiola’s side have reportedly held initial talks for Arsenal target Joan Garcia, although the 23-year-old Olympics 2024 gold medalist may not be their top choice.
Manchester City have endured a dreadful season, and Pep Guardiola is expected to make significant changes to his squad before challenging for major honours next season. While there are doubts about some of the defenders as well as midfielders, the manager is also focused on resolving a major issue further back with the goalkeeping situation.
Ederson Moraes came close to leaving the club for Saudi Arabia last season, and the current campaign might be his last at Manchester City. Meanwhile, Stefan Ortega could push for an exit should Guardiola not guarantee him a starting position. Manchester City may have to look for new keepers, particularly to replace the Brazilian No.1.
Manchester City are prioritising a move for Diogo Costa, although the Portuguese goalkeeper has big interest coming his way from Bayern Munich. While Guardiola’s side are likely to be the favourites to land the FC Porto star, if the Bavarian giants were to win the race, then Manchester City have an alternative in mind.
Joan Garcia, the 23-year-old Spanish goalkeeper, is a player Manchester City are interested in ahead of the summer. The Espanyol goalkeeper has been impressing since the start of 2024, and the Spanish strugglers are seeking his full release clause.
Manchester City face tricky Arsenal competition for Joan Garcia
Arsenal expect to win the Garcia race, as they have already done the groundwork for the 23-year-old Olympics 2024 gold medalist since last summer. The Gunners were intent on landing him following Aaron Ramsdale’s departure but did not agree to pay what Espanyol wanted.
Arsenal feel a verbal agreement with Joan Garcia would not be an issue, although Manchester City’s entry into the race complicates matters. Should Guardiola offer Garcia a starting berth, he will likely take up the role rather than join the Gunners as a second-choice stopper behind David Raya. However, Manchester City’s pursuit of the 23-year-old will depend on their pursuit of Costa, who remains their primary target.
