Arsenal are poised to make a major move in the transfer market by triggering the €30 million ($33m) release clause for Espanyol’s young goalkeeper, Joan Garcia.
This comes as the Gunners prepare for the likely departure of Aaron Ramsdale.
As Aaron Ramsdale edges closer to a move to Southampton, Arsenal has turned its attention to securing a replacement, and Joan García is at the top of their list.
The 23-year-old Spain Under-23 international, who recently won Olympic gold, has caught the eye of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
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Arsenal eyes Garcia as Ramsdale nears Southampton switch
Espanyol has made it clear that they will not accept anything less than García’s full release clause, which stands at €30 million ($33m).
Although Arsenal initially offered a €20 million ($22.2m) package, the Spanish club has refused to budge. With Ramsdale expected to leave for £18 million ($23.7m), plus potential add-ons, Arsenal is now ready to meet García’s clause.
🚨🔴⚪️ Espanyol insist on €30m release clause for Joan García after Arsenal bid worth €20m package add-ons included. pic.twitter.com/khkMJyH5wn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2024
Espanyol's head coach, Luis Garcia, expressed his desire to keep the talented shot-stopper but admitted the club is powerless if Arsenal pays the clause. "I can't do anything. If they pay the clause, we can't do anything," Garcia told Marca after Espanyol's recent 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid.
Arsenal are expected to finalize the deal quickly, with the Premier League transfer window closing soon. Garcia, a product of Espanyol's academy, is seen as a key part of Arsenal's goalkeeping plans, with Arteta also considering a homegrown option to serve as the club's third-choice keeper.
