Premier League giants Arsenal are reportedly set to circle back to one of their targets for whom a deal could not be finalized in the summer transfer window. This is as per Sport Witness, who have mentioned that the Gunners are looking to reignite their interest in signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, with goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana said to be a big admirer of the player.
Garcia was initially identified as a long-term replacement of Aaron Ramsdale, who departed the Emirates Stadium to join Southampton in the summer. However, the 23-year-old may now be viewed as a backup for David Raya, who has been Mikel Arteta’s first-choice goalkeeper for the last couple of seasons.
The report also added that Arsenal had agreed a £25 million move for the player but it fell through after last-minute change of heart from Espanyol about the offered fee. The north Londoners then had to make do with a loan move for Bournemouth’s 35-year-old Neto, who is yet to make an appearance for the Gunners, who could terminate the loan if someone becomes available this month.
Espanyol sporting director Fran Garagarza has also hinted that the shot-stopper may be sold in the future should a substantial offer be made for his services.
Joan Garcia addresses transfer speculation
While Joan Garcia was being linked with Arsenal throughout last summer, the player himself offered to share his thoughts on the situation. Speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, Garcia said,
“I tried to isolate myself from everything being said. I had been given the opportunity to achieve something I had been fighting for – a starting role at Espanyol. I couldn’t waste this opportunity.”
The player’s commitment to his current club would be a welcome sign for Espanyol, who can now demand an even higher fee for their prized asset. Garcia has made 47 appearances for the first team, keeping 15 clean sheets in the process. Aged just 23, his goalkeeping career has just about begun to gather pace.
