FC Barcelona is about to finalize their first signing for the 2025-26 season: Joan García, current goalkeeper for RCD Espanyol. According to the latest updates, Barça has reached a preliminary agreement with the 24-year-old goalkeeper, and if no setbacks arise, his signing will be made official next week.
Joan García's arrival changes everything
Joan García's arrival responds to Deco's strategy to rejuvenate the squad and secure the future of the goal. García, with a release clause of €25 million, has been key to Espanyol's stay in LaLiga and has attracted the interest of several European clubs.
The situation of the goalkeepers is complex. Ter Stegen has expressed his intention to stay at the club. "I know I'll stay next year, and as far as I know Iñaki and Peña and I are the two goalkeepers at Barça," he said.
However, Joan García's possible arrival could radically change the situation. Right now, Deco is considering having Szczęsny and Joan García while letting go of Ter Stegen and Iñaki Peña.
Wojciech Szczęsny, who arrived at Barça as a temporary reinforcement due to Ter Stegen's injury, has more than fulfilled expectations during the season. Although his contract ends this month, the club is considering his renewal, although his possible retirement is also being considered.
Meanwhile, Iñaki Peña, with a contract until 2026, could seek a way out due to the lack of opportunities in the first team. His future will depend on the moves in the goal this summer.
Joan García doesn't want Ter Stegen at Barça
Joan García's signing not only represents a bet on young talent, but also a statement of intent from Barça to consolidate a competitive team with international projection. The Catalan goalkeeper, trained in Espanyol's youth ranks, has proved his worth and is ready to make the leap to a club of FC Barcelona's stature.
In addition, Joan García has made it clear in negotiations and has set his conditions. If he signs for Barça, it's to play. If they don't guarantee it, he won't sign.
Ter Stegen's stay could hinder the perico goalkeeper's desire to switch sides in the city. Meanwhile, Ter Stegen faces opposition within Barça's own locker room, where more than one would celebrate his departure.
Barça's goal is preparing for a significant restructuring. With Joan García's possible arrival, the club seeks to secure the future between the posts, while the contract situations of Ter Stegen, Szczęsny, and Iñaki Peña are solved. The summer promises to be busy at Can Barça, and the goal will be one of the main focuses of attention.