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Arsenal remain interested in signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer, even as David Raya continues to establish himself as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice shot-stopper.
Raya, who initially joined the Gunners on loan from Brentford before making his move permanent last summer, has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers this season. His form led to the departure of Aaron Ramsdale, who joined Southampton, with Arsenal identifying Garcia as a potential replacement.
The 23-year-old Spaniard is regarded as one of the brightest young goalkeeping talents in Europe and has enjoyed an impressive season. While Arsenal opted against activating his £21.4 million release clause last summer, their interest in the two-time Spain international has not waned.
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Arsenal officials reportedly held discussions with Garcia’s representatives in December while the team was in Spain for a Champions League clash against Girona. Despite Raya’s excellent displays, Arteta is keen to add another high-quality goalkeeper to his squad to provide competition for the 29-year-old.
Joan Garcia (Image credit: Getty Images)Neto, who arrived on loan from Bournemouth in the closing stages of the summer transfer window, has featured just once this season and is set to return to his parent club in June. Arsenal also have promising young goalkeepers Jack Porter—who made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup at just 16—and Tommy Setford, who joined from Ajax nearly a year ago.
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According to The Athletic, Garcia remains open to a move to Arsenal, despite the challenge of displacing Raya. Speaking last month, the Espanyol star hinted at a potential departure, suggesting a transfer could benefit both him and his current club.
“I am a very cold person in every sense, and I think that attitude helps me. I am very calm at Espanyol, with an opportunity that I have been waiting for a long time,” Garcia said. “It will be for the good of everyone if I leave—both mine and the club’s, which has helped me grow. It can’t be any other way.”
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