Arsenal with FREE RUN at ‘Messi-like’ signing after HUGE update

Neither Bayern Munich nor Manchester United will dip into the goalkeeper market this summer, giving Arsenal a free run at Joan Garcia.

The Espanyol goalkeeper is one of Europe’s most sought-after options between the sticks after establishing himself among LaLiga’s best this season. Garcia already impressed in the second tier last term, but he has taken his game to a new level following promotion back to the top flight.

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Such has been the 23-year-old’s impact that his head coach lavished some eye-catching praise on him last week, describing him as a Lionel Messi-esque difference-maker for his club.

After failing to reach an agreement with Espanyol to sign him last summer, Arsenal will try again in the upcoming window as they remain in the market for a top-class No.2 who can compete with David Raya.

Due to Espanyol needing to raise funds, Garcia is expected to be sold for a fee below his €30 million release clause this summer, and this has attracted the attention of other suitors. However, Arsenal are the clear favourites to secure the signing of the Olympic gold medalist.

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Arsenal with free run at Garcia

Espanyol’s city rivals Barcelona are known admirers, but they are well-stocked in the goalkeeper department. Similarly, there have been links with Bayern. However, Sky Germany now reports that they, too, feel more than comfortable with their current options.

Cash-strapped Man Utd have emerged as contenders to sign him, with FootballTransfers able to confirm their genuine interest, but the Red Devils hierarchy feels that there are more pressing priorities elsewhere in the squad despite Ruben Amorim losing faith in Andre Onana.

Finally, Bayer Leverkusen are courting Garcia as they are actively looking for a new No.1 to replace the ageing Lukas Hradecky. However, the signs are pointing towards Spanish coach Xabi Alonso moving to Real Madrid, which could make Leverkusen a significantly less attractive destination.

All of this means that Arsenal will likely be in a pretty comfortable negotiating position in talks with Espanyol.

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