Newcastle join Arsenal, Real Madrid and Barcelona in the race for Joan Garcia | OneFootball

Newcastle United have stepped up their interest in Joan Garcia, joining a growing list of clubs vying for the Espanyol goalkeeper’s signature ahead of the summer transfer window.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the 24-year-old has drawn strong interest from across Europe following an impressive season in La Liga.

Garcia has been a consistent performer for Espanyol, regularly standing out with key saves that have helped keep the Catalan side afloat in several matches.

Despite having Nick Pope in goal, Newcastle are considering Garcia as a long-term option and are reportedly willing to activate his €25 million release clause to get a deal done swiftly.

The Magpies view Garcia as a player capable of stepping in as first-choice goalkeeper, which could give them a significant edge in the transfer race.

That level of responsibility is less certain at other interested clubs, making Newcastle’s offer particularly attractive for a player eager to maintain regular playing time.

Arsenal, Aston Villa, Bournemouth and Bayer Leverkusen are all said to be monitoring the situation.

Real Madrid have identified Garcia as a potential replacement for Andriy Lunin, while Barcelona are also admirers of the player, though financial constraints could limit their involvement.

Espanyol, meanwhile, may be forced to sell due to financial pressures and they are reportedly reluctant to see one of their most promising talents join their city rivals at Camp Nou.

Newcastle have already beaten Barcelona and Real Madrid to the signing of Spanish youngster Antonio Cordero, who will join from Malaga at the end of the season. They are now looking to repeat that success with Garcia.

A move to St James’ Park would give Garcia a chance to play in the Premier League while continuing his development in a competitive environment.

It would also represent another statement of intent from Newcastle as they continue to build a squad capable of challenging at the top end of the table.

With several clubs circling and Espanyol open to selling, a resolution could come early in the window. Newcastle, it seems, are positioning themselves to move quickly.