Joan García Leaves Espanyol to Complete €25m Move to Barcelona

Barcelona have signed goalkeeper Joan García from Espanyol by paying his €25 million release clause. García is one of Spain’s top young talents and joins on a long-term deal.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Joan García, 24, has officially left Espanyol and signed with Barcelona. The Catalan club activated his release clause after he impressed in LaLiga, playing every minute for Espanyol and helping them survive. García has agreed to a six-year contract with Barça, running until 2031. Although several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester City, and Newcastle, were interested, García chose to stay in Spain.

WHY THIS SIGNING MATTERS

García joining Barcelona is significant as they are refreshing their squad for the future. He was praised for his performances this season, notably keeping a clean sheet in Espanyol’s shock win over Real Madrid. Barcelona outbid several rivals to sign García, demonstrating their belief in his talent. He joins a goalkeeper unit including Marc-André ter Stegen, Wojciech Szczęsny, and Iñaki Peña, increasing competition and depth. Espanyol, meanwhile, lose an academy product and their first-choice keeper, who was crucial in their survival campaign.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BARCELONA AND JOAN GARCÍA?

Joan García will join Barcelona for preseason ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. He is expected to compete directly for the starting spot, especially with Marc-André ter Stegen exploring options elsewhere. Barcelona, who finished third in LaLiga last season, will hope García provides both immediate quality and long-term stability in defense. Their next fixture is a high-profile friendly against Chelsea, followed by the LaLiga opener in August. Espanyol, who narrowly avoided relegation, now face the challenge of replacing their star goalkeeper as they aim for a more secure campaign next season.