Arsenal Eye Cut-Price Deal for Joan Garcia After Secret Transfer Clause Revealed
Arsenal could have a chance to secure a cut-price deal for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia if they move quickly in the upcoming January transfer window.
During the summer, Arsenal showed interest in Garcia, but Espanyol demanded the full payment of his £25 million release clause, which led sporting director Edu to pass on the move, especially considering Garcia would have been the second-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya.
However, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Garcia’s release clause will drop to £20.8 million in the early stages of the transfer window before returning to £25 million just 15 days before the deadline.
This reduction presents an opportunity for Arsenal to save £4.2 million compared to the summer price.
Since Espanyol’s promotion to La Liga, Garcia has gained experience at the top level, proving his capabilities in Spain’s first division.
Arsenal’s decision not to pursue him in the summer might turn out to be advantageous if they can act early and secure the transfer for a lower fee.
Arsenal’s current backup goalkeeper, Neto, was brought in on a season-long loan from Bournemouth, and the 35-year-old Brazilian has yet to make his debut.
The club views Garcia as a longer-term solution who could challenge Raya for the starting spot in the future.
However, Arsenal may face competition from both Barcelona and Real Madrid for Garcia’s signature, especially since Barcelona is looking to cover for the long-term injury to Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Additionally, Espanyol could attempt to offer Garcia a new contract with a higher release clause to ward off potential suitors. Garcia’s current deal runs until 2028, so it’s uncertain whether he would accept a contract extension that might limit his chances of a move to a bigger club.
The 23-year-old goalkeeper has represented Spain at the Under-21 level and was part of the national team squad for the Olympics this summer, though he did not play in the tournament as Arnau Tenas was the preferred starter. For Arsenal, acting swiftly in January could be key to landing their top target before other clubs make their move.
Arsenal Eye Cut-Price Deal for Joan Garcia After Secret Transfer Clause Revealed
