Barça is planning the squad for the next season and is clear that there is a position where changes are needed: the goalkeeping. There have already been several serious injuries suffered by Ter Stegen, and that, combined with the fact that he will turn 33, suggests that it is necessary to prepare for a replacement in goal. There are several names on the list, but Laporta is clear about who his favorite is: the Catalan from Espanyol, Joan García.
Joan García has become one of the great revelations of LaLiga and is ready to leave Espanyol. His high performance suggests that he will leave next summer and won't lack offers. Arsenal tried a few months ago, offering 20 million euros, but the Catalans demanded the 30 "kilos" that his clause marked.
These 30 million clause were intended to be a deterrent for Joan García's departure, but his enormous performance makes him a bargain. Barça is looking for a new goalkeeper, and the Catalan fits all the requirements set in the search. He is very much liked, and Laporta, who has already consulted with Hansi Flick and Deco, would have received the OK from both.
Joan García, His Performance Attracts Barça's Attention
In the coming months, Joan García will turn 24 and is already, on his own merits, one of the best goalkeepers in LaLiga. In 25 matches with Espanyol, he has conceded 36 goals, numbers that, although they don't seem very remarkable, the reality is that they are. We are facing one of the worst defenses in the championship, and only his performances save the "pericos" from conceding more goals.
With a contract with Espanyol until 2028, Joan García is ready to leave, and Barça offers him an unbeatable context for it. The plan is to have the generational replacement for Ter Stegen ready as soon as possible, and the Catalan is at the top of the list. Everything will depend on the moves that can be made, but he is very much liked.
In this regard, Espanyol is clear that it doesn't intend to negotiate with Barça, its great rival in Catalonia. If the final goal is Joan García, it will be necessary to pay the 30 million of his clause.
Joan García Is Thinking About It
The Espanyol goalkeeper is aware of Barça's interest, but he knows that if he accepts the proposal, he will become a hated person in Cornellà. The rivalry is total, and he is not at all clear about this move.
While it is true that Joan García considers Barça the best step for his future, he wants to think it over carefully and make a decision that won't affect him in the coming years. He has time, Laporta wants him, but for now, it is not a priority. We will have to wait...