This time last week it looked as if Eric Garcia might be departing Barcelona to head back north to Girona, but that move now seems much less likely. The Catalan side look as if they will retain him until at least the summer.
Juventus’ pursuit of Ronald Araujo, and the potential for him to move, has drawn Garcia closer to completing the season at Barcelona. Sport say that Garcia would rather finish the season with Barcelona, and that Barcelona will only let one central defender go in January – if Araujo goes, Garcia stays.
Barcelona will not be able to count on Héctor Fort on January 15th for the Copa del Rey game against Real Betis. The full-back has been called up by Spain U19 for a friendly game against Italy U19, which will be played on the same day. @sport
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) January 10, 2025
With Barcelona showing no sign of offering Garcia a new contract, that could still lead to a departure in the summer. Real Sociedad and Girona have both shown interest in him last summer and this winter, and could be potential destinations.
Barcelona’s stance is a logical one, and even if it hurts Garcia’s value, they are much more likely to take a hit if Araujo is sold in the summer with no new deal agreed than if the former reaches that point. Both are out of contract in 2026, and Barcelona will need to take a decision in the next six months either way.
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