Arsenal’s bid to sign goalkeeper Joan Garcia for €20m in the summer transfer window was unsuccessful, according to Espanyol sporting director Fran Garagarza. The Gunners were looking to sell backup Aaron Ramsdale, who had lost his spot to David Raya, but only if they could secure a replacement before the deadline. Eventually, Ramsdale was sold to Southampton and Bournemouth’s Neto joined Arsenal on loan. Prior to their interest in Neto, Arsenal had been heavily linked with Olympic gold-medallist Garcia, who quickly rose into the Espanyol starting lineup last season due to an injury suffered by first-choice goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco. Although Garcia’s contract includes a €30m release clause, Arsenal were unwilling to meet that amount and reportedly offered only €20m.
Garagarza confirmed that the bid for Garcia was rejected but also acknowledged that the player could be sold in the future. He stated that Joan is considered an asset and is necessary for achieving their objectives because he plays in a specific position where they couldn’t afford any weakness. Garagarza believes that interest in Garcia will continue and there may come a time when selling him becomes more feasible.
Highlighting Garcia’s talent, Garagarza mentioned how they believed in him even when he wasn’t playing and had to renew his contract. He praised Garcia’s high level of performance on a daily basis and credited his rise to taking advantage of Pacheco’s injury. While acknowledging the interest from other clubs, Garagarza emphasized that for Espanyol, Garcia is seen as an important asset.
despite Arsenal’s failed bid for Joan Garcia this summer, it remains uncertain whether he will be sold or stay at Espanyol as an integral part of their team moving forward.
