Joan García Set for Barcelona Switch After Great Season

Barcelona are ready to sign Espanyol’s goalkeeper Joan García on a five-year deal. García had a breakout season in La Liga, and the club will pay his €25 million release clause next week. It’s a big move that shows Barcelona’s plans for the upcoming season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

García is seen as the best goalkeeper in La Liga last season. He chose to join Barcelona despite interest from teams like Arsenal and Manchester City. The 24-year-old and his agents recently agreed on the move. Barcelona will pay the €25 million release clause in full. García was determined to leave Espanyol only if his clause was paid. He also turned down offers from Premier League giants and other top clubs.

WHY BARCELONA MADE THE MOVE

García was fantastic last season, helping Espanyol finish mid-table. He was great at dealing with crosses, leading all goalkeepers in the top five European leagues. His shot-stopping skills were impressive too. Barcelona wanted to move fast, even before resolving Marc-André ter Stegen’s future. They are looking to refresh their squad and fill crucial positions. García is the long-term option and could become the main goalkeeper at Camp Nou.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BARÇA AND GARCÍA?

The move will be official once they’re able to trigger his release clause. Afterward, Barcelona will bring García into their pre-season activities in order to help them bounce back from last year’s poor fourth place finish in La Liga. García’s arrival will intensify the competition for the starting spot, which has cast doubt on Ter Stegen’s future. Meanwhile, Espanyol will need to find a new goalkeeper ahead of their season opener in August.