Arsenal have a lot of work to do in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Gunners look like they will miss out on the Premier League title for the third season in a row, and that is a real shame as many people saw them as the favourites to go all the way this term.
The fact that the North Londoners did not sign anyone in January increases the need for new additions in the summer, and incoming sporting director Andrea Berta will have several deals to sort out.
David Ornstein has now shared an update on one of Mikel Arteta’s key targets.
David Ornstein shares Joan Garcia to Arsenal transfer update
Joan Garcia has been Arsenal’s top goalkeeping target since last summer’s transfer window.
The Espanyol shot-stopper has made a terrific name for himself in La Liga. He has had a tremendous season so far, so much so that the Spanish media have hailed Garcia as ‘perfect’.
Reports recently have claimed that Atletico Madrid are trying to sign Garcia this summer as they look for a long-term replacement for Jan Oblak.
TBR Football exclusively revealed that Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City want to sign Garcia too after being impressed with his performances.
Ornstein was quizzed about Arsenal’s chances of signing the goalkeeper, and the journalist revealed that Garcia is ready to move to the Emirates.
But, a deal is not done just yet.
He said in a Q&A on The Athletic: “Yes, Arsenal have done a lot of work on Joan Garcia because Mikel Arteta wants him as number two to David Raya and from what we hear Joan Garcia would be open to joining.
“But I don’t know of anything being closed and until that happens… it’s still open!”
How much will Joan Garcia cost and how Arsenal can get him for a bargain fee?
Arsenal tried to sign Garcia last summer in the final days of the window, but Espanyol’s demands proved to be too much then.
So, Edu brought in Neto from Bournemouth on loan, but the Brazilian goalkeeper will be sent back to his parent club at the end of this season.
The top target for Arsenal to replace Neto is Garcia, who has a release clause of £25 million. But, the Gunners could get a huge discount.
It is written in the Spaniard’s contract that his release clause will be reduced if Espanyol end up getting relegated this season.
If that happens, Arsenal could sign Garcia for as little as £12 million, which would be an absolute bargain.
