**Barcelona and Real Madrid Eye Espanyol’s Joan García as Goalkeeper Solution*
Barcelona are reportedly interested in RCD Espanyol’s 24-year-old goalkeeper Joan García, who is valued at €25 million. The Catalan club sees him as a potential long-term replacement for Marc-André ter Stegen, whose recent performances and recovery from injury have raised concerns. According to COPE, García’s impressive form has made him a top target, but financial constraints could complicate any move.
García has been a standout performer this season, leading La Liga with 138 saves. His consistency has also attracted interest from Real Madrid, who view him as a possible successor to Andriy Lunin. MARCA reports that Lunin may seek a transfer in 2025 for more playing time, leaving Madrid in need of a reliable backup—or even a competitor—for Thibaut Courtois.
Barcelona’s financial struggles, however, make a deal difficult unless ter Stegen departs. The German goalkeeper is under contract until 2028, but a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia could free up funds. Without such an exit, the club may be forced to prioritize other positions, such as right-back and forward, over a new goalkeeper.
Real Madrid, under incoming manager Xabi Alonso, are not urgently seeking a goalkeeper but see García as a strong fit. The Spaniard’s potential to compete with Courtois makes him an appealing option, though Madrid’s immediate focus remains on other areas of the squad.
Arsenal, Manchester United, and Aston Villa are also monitoring García, with Diario AS claiming that Arsenal currently lead the race. The Premier League’s financial power could give English clubs an advantage, especially given Barcelona’s limited spending capacity.
Espanyol’s firm stance on García’s €25 million release clause adds another layer of difficulty. The fee could rise to €30 million if he earns a senior Spain cap, further complicating negotiations. For Barcelona, meeting these demands without significant sales appears unlikely.
With multiple clubs in contention, García’s future remains uncertain. Barcelona and Real Madrid face stiff competition, and financial realities may ultimately determine whether either Spanish giant can secure his signature this summer.