Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García, marking a significant move in their long-term planning for the position.
Espanyol’s Joan García Poised for Barcelona Switch in €25 Million Deal
The 24-year-old, who has been a standout performer in La Liga this season, is set to join the Catalan giants for a fee of €25 million, which could rise to €30 million if he receives a call-up to the Spanish national team.
García has been instrumental in Espanyol’s campaign, leading La Liga with 146 saves and earning accolades such as Espanyol’s Player of the Season and consecutive La Liga Save of the Month awards in February and March 2025.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United.
Despite the fierce competition, Barcelona have acted swiftly to secure García’s services, recognizing the need to prepare for the future amid uncertainties surrounding their current goalkeepers.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, now 33, has undergone multiple knee surgeries, and his long-term fitness remains a concern.
Backup goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, 35, is contemplating retirement, adding to the urgency for a reliable successor.
Given Barcelona’s current salary cap constraints, the club is considering loaning García to another La Liga team for the 2025/26 season to ensure he gains regular playing time.
Both Real Betis and Valencia have expressed interest in a loan deal, which would allow García to continue his development while Barcelona manage their squad dynamics.
García’s potential move to Barcelona is particularly noteworthy given his deep ties to Espanyol, where he has been since joining their youth setup in 2016.
His coach, Manolo González, expressed surprise at the prospect of García joining their city rivals, highlighting the player’s strong connection to Espanyol.
As Barcelona look to the future, securing a talent like Joan García underscores their commitment to building a squad capable of sustained success.
While the move awaits final confirmation, it represents a strategic acquisition for the club as they navigate the evolving landscape of European football.
