Man with glasses in the center, behind him the Real Madrid crest crossed out with a red X and the Barcelona crest with a green dove.
FIRST TEAM

Goodbye to Real Madrid: Fabrizio Romano confirms his signing with Barça

Joan García is in the final stretch of finalizing his move to the blaugrana team and leaves Real Madrid without their preferred option to replace Lunin

FC Barcelona has practically finalized a new addition for their goalkeeping position. Joan  García, current Espanyol goalkeeper, is very close to wearing the blaugrana jersey. This has been confirmed by transfer specialist journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Only one detail remains: the player's own approval.

Negotiations between Barça and Joan García's agents have progressed at a good pace. According to Romano, the agreement is practically sealed. The Catalan club expects to receive the goalkeeper's final approval in the coming days.

25 million clause and long contract

Joan García has a contract with Espanyol, but his release clause is €25 million (€25 million). Barcelona is willing to pay that amount, or to negotiate a favorable deal with the perico side.

If everything is finalized, Joan will sign for five seasons. It's a long-term project to compete at the elite level of Spanish soccer.

Barça is looking to strengthen their goalkeeping position. Marc-André ter Stegen has been injured for much of the 2024/25 campaign. Although the German remains a pillar, the club believes it's necessary to have a reliable alternative.

Joan García fits that profile.

Chosen Espanyol's MVP and followed from the Premier

Joan García's level this season has been outstanding. His saves secured numerous points for Espanyol. He was chosen as the team's best player, after a key campaign to secure their place in La Liga.

A player in a light blue uniform holds a ball in a stadium full of spectators.
Joan García | Real Madrid Confidencial

His performances haven't gone unnoticed.

Several Premier League teams, such as Arsenal and Aston Villa, showed interest in signing him. But the goalkeeper prioritizes staying in Spain. Even more so, making the leap to a giant like Barça.

With this move, Barcelona gets ahead of other European giants. Snatches up a national talent who was also being followed by Real Madrid.

The white side had monitored his progress, but didn't make a move due to the uncertainty of Lunin's future.

Now, barring any surprises, Joan García will say goodbye to Espanyol and join Barça. It's a key step in his career. A strategic move for the future of the culé goalkeeping position.

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