Arsenal’s pursuit of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has taken a promising turn, with head coach Manolo Gonzalez admitting he can’t guarantee the 23-year-old’s future beyond this season.
Garcia has established himself as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers following a stellar campaign in La Liga, drawing renewed interest from the Gunners, who made an attempt to sign him last summer but balked at meeting his £23.4m release clause.
With David Raya firmly Arsenal’s No.1 and back-up Neto’s loan from Bournemouth set to expire, Mikel Arteta is prioritizing a more competitive second-choice keeper. Young prospects Jack Porter and Tommy Setford remain highly rated but are not yet ready for senior roles, making Garcia an ideal candidate.
Speaking on Garcia’s future, Gonzalez was honest:
“I can’t guarantee that he’ll stay at Espanyol next season. You’re all seeing the level he’s at.”
Garcia himself hasn’t closed the door on a move either, telling Estadio Deportivo:
“At the moment I’m not thinking about that [future], but you never know. If it happens, let it happen in the best way. If I go through the back door, it wouldn’t go well.”
He echoed similar sentiments earlier this year in Mundo Deportivo, suggesting a transfer would benefit all involved:
“It will be for the good of everyone — mine and the club’s, which has made me grow.”
Arsenal’s Summer Transfer Priorities
🧤 Goalkeeper:
With Neto unlikely to stay, Arsenal are seeking a dependable back-up who can challenge Raya and step up if needed. Garcia’s quality and temperament could make him a perfect fit.
🛡️ Defence:
Kieran Tierney, Zinchenko, and Jakub Kiwior could be on their way out, necessitating a new left-sided defender — especially with injury concerns surrounding Tomiyasu and Riccardo Calafiori.
⚙️ Midfield:
Arsenal are still trying to restore balance to midfield following Granit Xhaka’s exit. Declan Rice has impressed in a more advanced role, and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is widely tipped to complete the puzzle.
⚔️ Attack:
With Bukayo Saka’s injury laying bare Arsenal’s over-reliance on him, the Gunners are targeting versatile wingers — Nico Williams is high on the list — and a true No.9, with Victor Gyokeres seen as the most attainable option.
Arsenal’s summer rebuild is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal under Arteta. Securing a talent like Garcia early could set the tone for a transformative transfer window.