Mikel Arteta could be forced to reconsider his pursuit of Espanyol’s Joan Garcia if a more affordable option arises. Arsenal had discussions with Espanyol last summer about acquiring one of Europe’s most promising goalkeepers, but the deal collapsed when Espanyol demanded €25m, a figure Arsenal was unwilling to meet at the time. Instead, the Gunners signed Neto on loan from Bournemouth.
David Raya, having established himself as Arteta’s number one choice, was given the No.1 shirt earlier this week, reinforcing his key role. Meanwhile, Neto will return to Bournemouth, and Arsenal is expected to search for another goalkeeper. Youngsters Jack Porter and Tommy Setford have not yet proven ready for promotion, which adds urgency to the situation.
Garcia’s performances for Espanyol this season have only enhanced his reputation, but the Gunners need to act swiftly if they want to secure his signature. If Garcia is selected for Spain’s Nations League fixtures, his release clause will increase by €5m. After that, any deal will cost €30m if it happens within two weeks of the transfer window closing.
Despite having one of their strongest seasons, with David Raya arguably being one of Arsenal’s standout performers, the allure of Garcia is difficult to overlook. Raya, 30, is likely to be Arsenal’s first choice for years to come, but Garcia’s meteoric rise cannot be ignored. With all the attributes needed to thrive at a top club, Garcia’s potential makes him an enticing prospect.
If Arsenal doesn’t act fast, Garcia could end up at a rival club, either in Spain or the Premier League. While Arteta has been fortunate with Raya’s consistency, he has to weigh the risks of introducing a new goalkeeper into the squad. The possibility of a world-class addition like Garcia presents an opportunity that doesn’t come often, but Arteta will have to decide if it’s worth the potential complications.
In the transfer market, Arteta may need to compromise. Last summer, his insistence on specific targets like Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino left Arsenal short in attacking options. If a better market opportunity presents itself, Arsenal might divert funds to other priorities.
Arsenal’s new sporting director, Edu, is also reportedly keen on signing Viktor Gyokeres, preferring the 27-year-old striker over Benjamin Sesko. While Sesko’s potential is evident, Gyokeres is in his prime and offers a more affordable option, which could help Arsenal address their immediate needs more efficiently.