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Arsenal’s Goalkeeping Plans Take Shape as Espanyol Chief Opens Door for Joan Garcia Move

Arsenal’s preparations for next season are gathering pace, with Mikel Arteta eager to reinforce multiple key areas in his squad. While the focus remains on strengthening the attack and midfield, the goalkeeping situation is another area under scrutiny. According to TeamTalk, the Gunners have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Espanyol’s Joan Garcia, as the Spanish club’s sporting director has all but admitted he would accept a suitable offer.

Garcia in Arsenal’s Plans for Next Season

Arsenal’s interest in Garcia is nothing new. Last summer, the club failed with a €20 million bid, but they have continued to monitor the 23-year-old shot-stopper, believing he could be the ideal long-term solution in goal.

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Espanyol’s sporting director, Fran Garagarza, has now made it clear that while the club would prefer to receive the full €25 million release clause, they will not necessarily hold out for that amount if a reasonable bid arrives early in the summer window.

“Clause or nothing? No,” Garagarza told Mundo Deportivo. “If you get an offer on June 14th that isn’t the clause but is close in fixed and variable amounts, Espanyol are not going to say no. We can’t say no.”

Timing the Bid Will Be Crucial

One important aspect of this deal is the rising value of Garcia’s clause. If Arsenal wait too long, the buyout figure increases to €30 million in the final weeks of the window, a scenario they would want to avoid. Acting decisively could allow the Gunners to secure their target at a more reasonable price.

Arsenal’s goalkeeping department has seen significant changes in recent years. David Raya arrived on loan from Brentford initially and then completed his permanent move to Arsenal and with Aaron Ramsdale moving to Southampton. Arteta is looking for a capable deputy and challenger for Raya’s No.1 spot.

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What Garcia Brings to Arsenal

Garcia’s impressive shot-stopping ability is a key factor in Arsenal’s pursuit, but there is more to his game than reflex saves. He has built a reputation as a commanding presence in the box, showing strength when dealing with crosses—an area where Arsenal have at times looked vulnerable.

His penalty-saving record is another trait that could prove valuable, especially in high-stakes games. Arteta has been clear in his preference for goalkeepers who are comfortable with the ball at their feet, and while Garcia is still developing in that aspect, he fits the modern profile of a goalkeeper who can adapt to Arsenal’s possession-based system.

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Arsenal’s Summer Strategy Taking Shape

While the focus remains on signing a top-class centre-forward, with Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko on the shortlist, Arteta’s determination to add competition for Raya suggests that Arsenal are looking at long-term squad balance rather than just headline-grabbing signings.

Espanyol’s willingness to negotiate could make Garcia’s arrival a realistic possibility, provided Arsenal move swiftly. Whether this is part of a broader revamp in the goalkeeping department remains to be seen, but it is clear that the club is not taking any chances when it comes to fine-tuning their squad for a Premier League title push.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal fans, this is exactly the kind of news they want to hear. Joan Garcia may not be a blockbuster signing, but he represents a smart, strategic move that strengthens a key position without breaking the bank.

With David Raya firmly established as Arteta’s preferred No.1, some may question why another goalkeeper is necessary. However, football at the highest level demands competition along with having a quality backup.

Garcia’s profile is promising—he commands his area well, is an excellent shot-stopper, and has shown glimpses of being a strong presence in penalty situations. But is he truly ready to challenge Raya? That’s the bigger question.

The price tag is reasonable, but Arsenal must avoid unnecessary delays. Waiting too long means paying the increased €30 million release clause, which is less attractive for a player who would likely start as a second-choice goalkeeper.

Ultimately, this deal aligns with Arsenal’s long-term ambitions. Arteta is building a squad that can compete on multiple fronts, and having quality depth in every position is part of that vision. If Garcia arrives, he will have the opportunity to develop under a system that rewards technical and tactical improvement.

With attacking reinforcements also on the agenda, Arsenal fans can expect an eventful summer transfer window, but ensuring depth in goal remains an important step toward sustained success in the Premier League and beyond.