Arsenal’s bid to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has been given a significant boost after the Spanish club’s director, Fran Garagarza, revealed that they would consider selling the 23-year-old for less than his €30m (£24.8m) release clause.
Garcia’s Release Clause Not a Sticking Point
Garagarza’s admission suggests that Arsenal may not have to meet the full release clause to secure Garcia’s signature.
“If a club comes with an offer close to the clause, Espanyol are not going to say no,” Garagarza said.
Arsenal’s Previous Interest in Garcia
The Gunners pursued Garcia last summer but were rebuffed by Espanyol after failing to meet the release clause.
Arsenal instead signed Neto on loan from Bournemouth, but they do not have the option to make the deal permanent.
Garcia’s Profile and Achievements
Garcia joined Espanyol’s youth setup in 2016 and has since played 53 first-team games, keeping 16 clean sheets.
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He helped Espanyol earn promotion to La Liga last season and was part of Spain’s gold medal-winning squad at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
What’s Next for Arsenal and Garcia?
With Espanyol open to selling Garcia for less than his release clause, Arsenal may revive their interest in the goalkeeper this summer.
The Gunners are likely to face competition for Garcia’s signature, but Garagarza’s admission has handed them a significant boost in their pursuit.
