Manchester United are preparing to derail long time rivals Arsenal’s plans to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer.
The Spaniard was subject to interest from Arsenal last summer, with the club reportedly setting themselves for a further approach in the coming months.
But now, according to a report by Steve Kay at Transfersdotcom, Manchester United have weighed in with the intent of pursuing a potential deal for Garcia, as Andre Onana’s form at Old Trafford continues to falter.
Who is Joan Garcia?
Joan Garcia has been attracting attention across Europe following his performances for Espanyol this season. The 23-year-old has been an ever-present in Catalonia this term, starting all 30 league fixtures to date.
In that time, he has managed six clean sheets for a side sitting in 15th place, playing a huge role in keeping his side above the relegation places.
At six feet and three inches, his aerial dominance and decision making has caught the eye, as well as his penalty saving exploits – having saved a third of his penalties faced this campaign.
Yet to receive his first call up for the Spanish national team, a Premier League move is likely to aid ambitions to represent his nation.
Arsenal is ready for a transfer battle.
Arsenal have contested many memorable matches with Manchester United over the years and may need to fend off their historic rivals for Garcia’s signature.
At the beginning of 2024/25, Mikel Arteta settled on David Raya as his number one, and waved farewell to Aaron Ramsdale who has spent the season on loan at Southampton.
The Gunners previously lodged a bid in the region of €20m last summer proceeding the Englishman’s departure, the club viewing the Spaniard as a number two to David Raya.
Depth in the goalkeeper department is crucial for a side with the ambitions of Arsenal, the options are a necessity for both the coach and the squad, it will be interesting to see how far Arsenal will take their interest in the face of competition.
Arsenal are clearly keen admirers of Garcia; however, their interest and offer may be tested with Manchester United now prepared for a transfer battle.
Goalkeeper Headache Rumbles on for Manchester United
While Onana has undoubtedly produced moments to match his hefty price tag, the Cameroon international’s time at Old Trafford has left much to be desired.
The goalkeeper’s mistakes have been particularly costly in their Europa League campaign, notably during their 2-2 draw away at Lyon.
Becoming the subject of heavy criticism from ex-Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic, Onana was deemed to be majorly at fault for both Lyon goals that night.
His two errors saw him dropped for Turkish international Altay Bayındır in their next Premier League fixture, where the Red Devils lost 4-1 to Newcastle United.
It has been suggested that Ruben Amorim is caught between a rock and a hard place with his goalkeeping options. Especially after he reinstalled Onana for the second leg of the quarter final after his high profile misdemeanors a week earlier.
With rumors circulating linking Onana to the Saudi Pro League, it is no surprise to see Manchester United stake an early bid for a new name between the sticks going into the 2025-26 campaign.
An offer at Old Trafford may be better for the Spaniard’s career, with the report claiming Manchester United view the 23-year-old as a first team option as opposed to Arsenal who see the keeper as a “long-term investment”.