Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, looks on during a training session (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
Arsenal are interested in signing the Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia at the end of the season.
The 24-year-old has been outstanding in La Liga this season, and he has made the most number of saves in the Spanish League. It is no surprise that top clubs are keen on securing his signature.
A report from Spanish publication AS claims that Arsenal are in pole position to get the deal done.
Espanyol under pressure to sell
The report claims that Espanyol are currently going through financial problems, and they need to raise €15 million through sales. Garcia has a €25 million release clause, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can convince them to accept a knock-down fee.
The Spanish outfit are going through financial stress and Arsenal could look to make the most of the opportunity. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Arsenal could certainly use more depth in the goalkeeping department, and the 24-year-old would be the ideal acquisition.
Barcelona keen on Joan Garcia
Arsenal will face competition from Spanish giants Barcelona, who are looking at the player as a long-term replacement for Wojciech Szczesny. It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs come forward with an offer to sign him.
Barcelona will be an attractive destination for the player as well. They are closing in on the La Liga title, and they are one of the biggest clubs in the world. The opportunity to join them can be hard to turn down. Furthermore, joining them would allow Garcia to stay in his homeland.
It remains to be seen what he decides. The 24-year-old goalkeeper will want to play regularly, and Arsenal might have to provide him with gametime assurances to get the deal done. It will be interesting to see if Mikel Arteta is willing to hand him a starting spot ahead of David Raya.
