Barcelona are closing in on a deal to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, according to reports from Cadena SER. The club has reportedly reached a preliminary agreement, with plans to activate his €25–30 million release clause. The fee could increase if Garcia receives a call-up to the Spanish national team. Due to financial constraints, Barcelona may loan Garcia out immediately after signing him. Real Betis and Valencia have both shown interest in securing the 23-year-old on a temporary deal, with Garcia open to a loan move to ensure regular playing time.
The potential acquisition comes amid uncertainty over the futures of current goalkeepers Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny. Barcelona see Garcia as a long-term solution, but his immediate role remains unclear. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that negotiations are advancing, though a final agreement has not yet been finalized. The deal reflects Barcelona’s strategy of securing young talent while navigating financial limitations. Garcia has been a standout performer for Espanyol, attracting attention from several top clubs.
His potential arrival at Camp Nou signals Barcelona’s intent to strengthen their squad despite budgetary challenges. If the transfer goes through, Garcia would follow a growing trend of young Spanish goalkeepers making high-profile moves. His development could benefit from a loan spell before potentially taking over as Barcelona’s first-choice keeper in the future.
The situation also raises questions about Ter Stegen’s long-term role at the club. While the German remains a key player, Barcelona’s interest in Garcia suggests they are planning for the post-Ter Stegen era. Fans will be watching closely as the deal progresses, with Garcia’s potential signing marking another strategic move in Barcelona’s squad rebuild. Further updates are expected in the coming days as negotiations reach their final stages.