Unai Emery’s Aston Villa have enquired about the availability of Arsenal and Real Madrid goalkeeping target Joan Garcia.
According to a report from Marca, Aston Villa are keen on acquiring the services of Joan Garcia, who has made quite a name for himself with his consistent performances for Espanyol. The Spanish shot-stopper is already on the wishlist of Arsenal and Real Madrid but Unai Emery’s team are looking to steal a march on them.
Garcia has come up the ranks at Espanyol and has been a part of their first team since the summer of 2021. While he wasn’t getting much game time in the initial years, he worked his way into the starting XI towards the end of last season and played a major part in their promotion to the top flight.
His consistent performances helped him cement a spot in the team and he hasn’t looked back since. The 23-year-old who was a part of the Spanish team that won the Olympics last summer has featured in a total of 32 La Liga games this season and has even kept a total of seven clean sheets.
Real Madrid and Arsenal keen on signing Garcia
He has emerged as one of the best young goalkeepers in the Spanish top flight and there is no shortage of interest in his services. Arsenal and Real Madrid are two clubs who have been keeping a close eye on the young shot-stopper who has a release clause worth €25 million.
Espanyol are well aware of the fact that they will find it very difficult to keep hold of the 23-year-old amidst interest from some of the biggest clubs. Andriy Lunin has been linked with a move away and Los Blancos are looking at Garcia as an ideal replacement.
He could provide cover for Thibaut Courtois for now and eventually establish himself as a mainstay. Meanwhile, Arsenal view him as a potential deputy to David Raya. With Neto set to return to his parent club in the summer, Garcia could take his place in the squad.
Villa enquire about the Spanish shot-stopper
While both clubs have kept a close eye on him, Aston Villa have entered the race and they are already making moves to secure his services. Emiliano Martínez has been their go-to man in goal but he has been linked with a move to the Middle East.
He has a massive financial offer at the table from Saudi Arabia and if does choose to walk away, Garcia could come in to replace him. He could be a great option for the long run for Unai Emery’s team.
Garcia’s agent Juanma Lopez is well aware of the fact that they don’t need to rush into a decision. The 23-year-old is expected to take his time before deciding which club he wants to join. Meanwhile, his release clause could go up by another €5 million if he ends up getting called up to the national team in the near future.