The transfer market continues to move quickly in Europe, even before its official opening in July. The continent's major clubs are working at full speed to strengthen their squads for the 2025-2026 season.
Real Madrid, one of the most important clubs in the world, is already planning the upcoming changes. Amid the movements, a player from Espanyol has caught the attention of both the Merengues and other giants of European soccer.
Joan García, the New Target
Real Madrid has started to look to the future regarding the goalkeeper position. Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez, together with chief scout Juni Calafat, have been closely monitoring the progress of Joan García, a young goalkeeper from Espanyol. The reason behind this interest is clear: if Andriy Lunin, Madrid's current second goalkeeper, decides to leave in the next market, the club will need a replacement.
The problem is that not only Real Madrid has set its sights on García. Manchester United is also very interested in the Spanish goalkeeper.
According to sources from TEAMtalk, the English team has taken a step forward in the race to sign him, which has caused concern at Arsenal, who have been following him for months. Although the Gunners tried to sign him last summer, they couldn't finalize the deal, so they were forced to look for other options, such as goalkeeper Neto.
Manchester United Enters the Fray
The news that Manchester United is willing to fight for Joan García complicates things for Real Madrid. The Red Devils have shown great interest in improving their squad and are willing to pay a considerable amount to achieve it. It is rumored that the price could be around 30 million euros, which would put the Spanish club in a difficult situation.
Espanyol, of course, has no intention of giving away one of its most promising players. However, Real Madrid's leaders have made it clear that they are not willing to enter a bidding war for García. The situation could depend on what happens with the future of Andriy Lunin, who has a contract with Madrid until 2030.
Lunin, a Near Farewell
The departure of Lunin from Real Madrid seems increasingly likely. The Ukrainian has been in the shadow of Thibaut Courtois, the starting goalkeeper, which has left him with very few minutes of play. Lunin has already expressed several times that he wants to find a club where he can play regularly.
Madrid doesn't want to keep him without guaranteed minutes, so his departure in the summer is becoming more likely. If this happens, the Merengue club would have to look for a substitute, and Joan García is emerging as one of the favorites to fill that spot. However, Manchester United's interest may complicate things.