Arsenal are keeping an eye on Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia and are likely to return with a fresh bid when the transfer window opens in the summer.
However, they might need to ramp up their efforts to lure him to the Emirates Stadium, with Cadena Cope reporting that Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on the talented shot-stopper.
Garcia has played a key role in Espanyol’s battle for survival this season, and they’re on course to cement their place in the top flight with seven games remaining.
His exceptional form has sparked interest from a host of clubs across Europe, so he may not be an Espanyol player beyond this summer.
The Premier League has long been touted as his likely landing spot, but that could change with Madrid now in the picture.
Arsenal’s interest in Garcia dates back to last season. They couldn’t get a deal over the line, but they’re still pushing to sign the highly rated keeper.
Espanyol are aware of the growing interest in Garcia and won’t block his exit, but the player’s valuation depends on their top-flight status.
If they avoid relegation – which now seems more likely – Garcia will be available for £25 million. But if they drop down to the second division, that fee is halved.
The fluidity of the situation has put off potential suitors from making their move for now. They want to see how Espanyol’s season unfolds before the bids start rolling in.
With Espanyol sitting nine points above the relegation zone, they’re poised to make significant profit on their academy graduate.
Arsenal and Madrid aren’t the only clubs circling.
Bayer Leverkusen, Atletico Madrid, and Manchester City are also in the mix, but Madrid have reportedly been tracking him longer than most.
Barcelona were also interested in Garcia but they’ve decided not to pursue a deal this summer.
Madrid’s potential move for Garcia depends on what happens with Andriy Lunin, who has grown tired of playing second fiddle to the injury-prone Thibaut Courtois.
Meanwhile, Arsenal want Garcia to provide competition for his compatriot David Raya.
