FC Barcelona is in a phase of renewal. After some years of changes, it is now focusing on the goalkeeping position.
Ter Stegen's future is hanging in the air, and with 33 years on the horizon, the club is already looking for his replacement. In this regard, there is one name that stands out above the rest: Joan García.
Ter Stegen, an Uncertain Future
Ter Stegen has been one of Barça's pillars. He has won many titles and has proven to be a world-class goalkeeper. However, recent injuries have made the club consider his continuity.
The German goalkeeper has suffered several physical problems in recent years, which has raised alarms. At 33 years old, Barcelona believes it is time to think about a replacement for the goalkeeping position.
Joan García, the Great Promise
Amid this scenario, Joan García, Espanyol's goalkeeper, has come to the forefront. Despite his young age, he has shown spectacular performance.
At just 24 years old, he has been key for the Perico team and has caught the attention of several elite clubs. Among them, Barça sees him as the perfect successor to Ter Stegen.
Recently, Arsenal tried to sign him for 20 million euros, but Espanyol rejected the offer. The Catalan club demands the 30 million of his release clause. This makes it clear that the goalkeeper has significant market value.
Laporta, Deco, and Flick's Approval
Barça is determined to sign Joan García. The club's president, Joan Laporta, has spoken with Hansi Flick and Deco, the club's sporting director.
Both have given their approval to the operation. This shows that Espanyol's goalkeeper is on the priority list.
Joan García perfectly fits the profile that Barça is looking for: young, talented, and with a great future ahead. The club is convinced that he has what it takes to be Ter Stegen's replacement. Moreover, his youth would allow him to be in Barcelona's goal for several years.
Espanyol Doesn't Make It Easy
The main obstacle for Barça to sign Joan García is Espanyol. The Perico club doesn't want to negotiate with its great Catalan rival.
It won't be easy for Barça to get the goalkeeper, especially because Espanyol demands the 30 million of his clause. This forces Barcelona to pay the full amount if they want to secure his services.
However, Barça is willing to make the necessary effort. The club sees Joan García as the future of the goalkeeping position and the best option to replace Ter Stegen.