After an exceptional season crowned with a domestic treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup), Barcelona enters the summer transfer market with great ambitions to maintain domestic dominance and reclaim European glory.
The club’s management, led by president Joan Laporta and new coach Hansi Flick, has prioritized signing a world-class goalkeeper to strengthen the squad. Spanish goalkeeper Juan García has emerged as a top target following a stellar season, with many considering him the best goalkeeper in La Liga. However, Barcelona now faces unexpected competition from Manchester City, as Pep Guardiola has reportedly entered the race to sign him.
The move comes as a potential replacement for Ederson, who has attracted interest from Saudi clubs. Guardiola sees García as an ideal long-term solution due to his reflexes, footwork, and competitive mentality. At just 24 years old, the Espanyol keeper fits City’s project of sustained success. Barcelona, meanwhile, views him as the natural successor to Marc-André ter Stegen and is prepared to trigger his €25 million release clause.
The Blaugrana’s hopes, however, are under threat as Manchester City offers a more lucrative contract and clearer guarantees of playing time. García is reportedly hesitant about joining Barcelona due to the pressure of replacing Ter Stegen and the potential for a tougher competition for the starting role. Guardiola’s interest has complicated Barcelona’s plans, as the player is now weighing his options carefully.
While Hansi Flick has assured García of a key role in the club’s future, Barcelona may struggle to match City’s financial and sporting proposal. The Catalan club risks losing one of its top summer targets. For García, the decision could come down to project stability versus immediate playing time. At City, he would work under Guardiola, a manager known for developing goalkeepers, while at Barcelona, he would face the challenge of winning over fans in a high-pressure environment.
Flick remains hopeful but acknowledges the difficulty in competing with City’s offer. The German coach has emphasized García’s importance to Barcelona’s rebuild, yet the financial and sporting advantages of a move to Manchester could prove decisive. As the transfer battle heats up, Barcelona must act quickly to secure their priority target. Guardiola’s late intervention has thrown a major curveball, and the coming days will determine whether the Blaugrana can salvage the deal or if City will succeed in hijacking their plans.