In a surprising turn of events, Arsenal could now be set to make a Spanish goalkeeper their first signing of the summer.
It’s been widely reported that Aaron Ramsdale will leave Arsenal in the coming months, not content with playing back up to David Raya.
An understandable decision, that will result in Mikel Arteta searching for a new number two.
As always, goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana will play an important role in the decision, perhaps having more say than anyone else.
Of course, Arsenal have just been able to extend the contract of Karl Hein recently, which could save them a real headache this summer.
Although Hein could still leave on loan, Arsenal may now be able to avoid the pressure of recruiting two keepers in the same summer, should Ramsdale and Hein both have both left.
That being said, Arsenal have only significantly been linked with Feyenoord number one Justin Bijlow this summer – that was until journalist Gerard Romero just dropped a bombshell.
Arsenal could be about to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia as new number two
Romero is very reputable in Spain, and has just claimed on his Twitch channel that Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia will soon be an Arsenal player.
The 23-year-old played 21 times for the second tier outfit last season, and seemingly impressed Arsenal’s recruitment team in those minutes.
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Romero didn’t go into detail, but definitively said: “Joan Garcia, Espayol goalkeeper, future of Arsenal.”
And in a summer in which Arsenal are searching for a new number two as stated, those words seem pretty significant.
According to a report by Diario AS, who also mention Tottenham as front-runners for Garcia’s signature, the goalkeeper is thought to have a release clause of around €25m (£21m).
Espanyol may be willing to accept a sum slightly below that figure in reality – something which would suit the rest of Arsenal’s summer transfer plans.
How does Joan Garcia compare to David Raya?
In terms of Garcia’s style, there are definitely similarities to Arsenal number one Raya.
Via FBref, Garcia stood out as one of the best cross claiming goalkeepers in La Liga 2, an area of Raya’s game which is often celebrated.
And at 6’3”, Garcia was also among the best shot stoppers in the division, an impressive profile all round.
That being said, Arsenal have also been given reason for encouragement in pursuit of PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko.