23yo on ‘intense’ transfer window that almost resulted in a move to Arsenal

Arsenal‘s summer pursuit of Joan Garcia was one of the most intense transfer sagas of the window, as the Gunners made multiple bids to bring the Espanyol goalkeeper to North London.

Despite their best efforts, however, Arsenal fell short of securing their long-term goalkeeping target, as Espanyol refused to budge on Garcia’s £25 million release clause.

Now, Garcia has opened up about the chaotic end to the transfer window that almost saw him make the switch to the Premier League giants.

Speaking about the speculation and constant negotiations, Garcia explained how he remained focused on his football despite the noise surrounding a potential move.

“During the entire transfer market I was quite isolated,” Garcia said. “I was at the Olympic Games with Spain, and when I arrived back, La Liga was starting. The last few days were more intense, but I was focusing on what I had to do on the pitch. I managed not to get distracted.

“I am very happy that people are happy that I have stayed. I have worked all these years for this – playing with Espanyol in the top division – and this is how it is. I hope to take advantage of it. With the Olympic Games, I came when the season was already beginning. I’ve barely had time to think about it.

“It was the opportunity I’ve been working for and I couldn’t afford to have my head out of it.

“Everything comes to you, but I had to be very calm, with my head where it should be.”

Arsenal had identified Garcia as a priority signing, with Aaron Ramsdale moving to Southampton. They saw Garcia as a young, long-term solution for the goalkeeper position. According to reports, Arsenal’s interest became more urgent as the window drew to a close, with the Gunners submitting multiple bids in an attempt to secure Garcia’s signature.

Their highest offer, reportedly €25 million (£21.1 million), came on deadline day.

However, Espanyol were unwavering in their demands, standing firm on Garcia’s €30 million release clause. The buyout clause system in Spain requires that the full amount be paid upfront, a financial commitment Arsenal were unwilling to meet at that stage.

This led to Arsenal abandoning their pursuit, at least temporarily, and turning their attention elsewhere.

Former Real Madrid and Espanyol goalkeeper Kiko Casilla has since praised Joan Garcia for staying with Espanyol, although it’s important to note that Garcia was open to the move – it was his club that held firm. Casilla shared his thoughts on the situation, saying, “I think he has done very well staying at Espanyol. Arsenal may sign you, you may even play, but at the slightest doubt, they will take you away and put in another goalkeeper, as they did with Ramsdale.”

Casilla’s remarks, however, overlooked the fact that Garcia himself was interested in the transfer, with negotiations between Arsenal and his agent, Andy Bara, ongoing for over a week before Espanyol finally put their foot down and refused to sell.

Garcia’s reputation has grown significantly over the past year. His breakthrough came in March 2024, when he replaced an injured Fernando Pacheco during a match against Huesca. Garcia quickly cemented his position as Espanyol’s first-choice goalkeeper and played a pivotal role in helping the team secure promotion to La Liga. His performances also earned him a place in Spain’s U21 squad, where he went on to win an Olympic gold medal.

Recognising Garcia’s potential and value, Espanyol moved swiftly to secure him on a long-term contract until 2028, with a significant release clause to ward off suitors. Their sporting director, Fran Garagarza, has been vocal in his admiration for Garcia, stating, “We are facing a great goalkeeper but a great person, who is far above the goalkeeper. His behaviour, his knowing how to be, his attunement and his tone of voice, for me is 10.”

After the failed attempt to sign Garcia, Arsenal quickly moved to secure an experienced option to provide cover and competition. They brought in Brazilian goalkeeper Neto on loan from Bournemouth. While Neto brings a wealth of experience, having played for top clubs such as Barcelona, Juventus, and Valencia, his signing is clearly a short-term solution, given his age (35).

Neto’s arrival filled the immediate void left by Ramsdale’s departure, but Arsenal are still keen on finding a younger, long-term option to secure their goalkeeping future.

What’s next for Joan Garcia and Arsenal?

Despite the setback, Arsenal’s interest in Joan Garcia is far from over. The club is expected to keep a close eye on his progress at Espanyol, and the young goalkeeper remains on their transfer shortlist for future windows. However, with Garcia’s rising profile in European football, a potential move could become even more complicated and expensive.

Casilla’s comments that Garcia will “surely in a year or two equal or better proposals will come to him” seem increasingly likely, especially as the young shot-stopper continues to impress in La Liga. While Arsenal may have missed out this summer, they are unlikely to abandon their pursuit entirely.

For now, Garcia will remain focused on his role at Espanyol, where he has already established himself as a key player. But with Arsenal – and other top European clubs – keeping tabs on his performances, it seems only a matter of time before Joan Garcia faces another transfer saga.