‘I highly doubt it’ – Espanyol boss responds to Joan García’s Barcelona links | OneFootball

Espanyol head coach Manolo González has this week provided his take on the speculation linking star goalkeeper Joan García with a move to city rivals Barcelona.

The name of shot-stopper Joan has of course been an altogether prominent one in the headlines across Catalunya over recent days.

This comes amid the widespread understanding that Barcelona have identified the 24-year-old as a leading transfer target for the summer.

Fresh off nothing short of a spectacular campaign at the RCDE Stadium, Joan is considered a star in the making by those behind the scenes at the Camp Nou.

So much so that an official proposal on the part of the Blaugrana for the Spaniard is expected any day now.

One individual, however, who remains doubtful when it comes to the chances of any such transfer actually coming to fruition, is the aforementioned Manolo González.

Speaking during an appearance on Radio Galega’s AoContraataque program, as cited by Mundo Deportivo, on Thursday, Espanyol’s headmaster was asked about Joan’s exit links, to which he initially responded:

“I knew him from the youth team and the reserve team, and I’ve always thought he’s a top goalkeeper. I think he’ll be a world-class goalkeeper. For the money he’s worth, I wouldn’t hesitate to sign him if I could.”

Drawn specifically on the likelihood of the talented goalkeeper linking up with Barcelona for next season, González concluded:

“Maybe he’s already sold, but the club hasn’t told me anything. Personally, I highly doubt he’ll sign for Barcelona. I’m not saying I’d cut off my hand, but I’d be close.”

Conor Laird – GSFN