Barcelona has secured the incorporation of goalkeeper Joan García, coming from Espanyol, in a deal valued at 25 million euros. The official announcement was made by the club, marking a strategic reinforcement for the squad. García, 24 years old, has signed a contract that ties him to Barça until 2031. His arrival will strengthen the goalkeeper position, where names like Marc-André ter Stegen, Wojciech Szczęsny, and Iñaki Peña already appear.
The interest in García was not limited to the local area. Several Premier League clubs, such as Manchester City, Arsenal, Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Bournemouth, also showed interest in the goalkeeper. However, the statement by Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola, indicating his satisfaction with the team’s current goalkeepers, Éderson and Stefan Ortega, paved the way for Barça to finalize the signing of García. The arrival of García promises to generate changes in the dynamics of Barcelona’s goal. Ter Stegen, who has been the starting goalkeeper for the last decade, had a season marked by injuries, but has assured his continuity in the club. Szczęsny, who came out of retirement to join Barça following Ter Stegen’s injury, is considering an offer to extend his contract, which expires at the end of June. Regarding Pena, the youth player, 26 years old, is expected to leave the club this summer in search of more playing opportunities.Espanyol, although they preferred to keep García, could not prevent the transfer given that the player’s release clause was 25 million euros.
Alofoke Deportes
García, who becomes the first Espanyol player to move directly to Barça since 1994, shared his feelings in a farewell post. Description of the publication: “It’s time to say goodbye to the club that has been my home since I was 15 years old. I have always given everything to help the team and represent the crest with the utmost respect and commitment. I know that it will not be easy for many to understand this decision, nor do I expect them to, but I want you to know that it was a decision I thought a lot about, not only thinking about my career, but also about what is best for the club, my family and me. I leave with my heart full of gratitude. Now a new challenge begins, which I enter with great enthusiasm, but also with respect for everything I leave behind.”He is one of the best goalkeepers at the moment, not only in Spain but throughout Europe.
Wojciech Szczęsny
