Barcelona leading race to sign priority target, negotiations well advanced – report | OneFootball

It is no secret that RCD Espanyol ace Joan Garcia has been chosen by Barcelona’s sporting management as the ideal candidate to lead the goalkeeping department under Hansi Flick.

After a spectacular season, the 24-year-old shot-stopper is in heavy demand heading into the summer, with the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid also among those interested.

Barcelona, too, are intent on roping in Garcia and are optimistic about their chances of signing the player despite the competition and the direct rivalry between them and Espanyol.

Barcelona leading the race

In fact, Mundo Deportivo now reports that Barcelona have taken the lead in the race to sign Joan Garcia and the deal could be completed in the coming days, with negotiations well advanced.

Barcelona have submitted a firm offer – a five-year contract – now awaiting only the player’s final approval to proceed with the operation.

While other teams have shown interest, none have progressed as far as Barcelona. The offer from the La Liga champions is the only one that is finalised and ready to be executed once the player gives the green light.

Garcia’s agent, Juanma Lopez, communicated this to the player during a meeting on Thursday, where he also presented offers from other clubs.

Reasons why Barcelona are ahead

One of the key factors tipping the balance in Barcelona’s favour is the ambitious sporting project led by Hansi Flick. The club aims to compete for all major titles immediately, and Garcia would be joining a young, cohesive squad with long-term potential.

Headed to Barcelona? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Additionally, the international profile of Barcelona could strengthen his case for a call-up to the Spanish national team. Interestingly, the proposed contract from the club also includes a bonus clause for when he makes his debut with the senior national side.

Another decisive factor is personal stability. Signing for Barça would not require a change of residence, something that Garcia and those around him greatly value. He would remain in his home city, close to family, in an environment where he feels comfortable.

However, this is also where one of the main doubts arises: Garcia is fully aware of the implications of moving from Espanyol to Barça.

Nonetheless, his agents have stressed that this is not a betrayal in sporting terms, but rather a logical career step towards a club offering top-level competition.

Garcia wants to assess the situation with a clear mind, aware that an opportunity like Barcelona does not come around often and that the move makes sense both from a sporting and financial perspective.

Barcelona are eager to finalise the deal as soon as possible, and Garcia is also keen to settle his future without unnecessary delays. If everything proceeds according to plan, a final decision could be made next week.