24-year-old Barcelona target opens the door to his departure after helping his team avoid relegation | OneFootball

After having enjoyed a lot of stability in the goal with Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the 2024-25 season saw FC Barcelona experience a roller coaster ride in this position.

This happened primarily because the German goalie suffered a serious injury that kept him out for almost the entirety of the season. In his stead, Inaki Pena and Wojciech Szczesny, who was signed after Ter Stegen’s injury, were the two goalkeepers who protected the goal for the Blaugrana team.

However, the Pole’s continuity at the Catalan team is quite doubtful, and Inaki Pena is highly likely to leave Barcelona this summer.

Joan Garcia opens the door to his departure

In such a context, the Blaugranes have been linked with the Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who has stood out with his performances this season. In fact, he was key for his side as they avoided relegation on the last matchday of La Liga.

However, as SPORT reports, after having ensured his team’s presence in the top Spanish league last night, the Spaniard talked to the media and opened the door to his departure from Espanyol:

“Everyone knows the situation I’m in and the situation the club is in, but I was focused on keeping the team in the First Division. Whatever happens, if I leave, I will leave proud of having kept the team in the First Division, which is what it deserves, and that my family can come and watch the team in the First Division—hopefully for many more years to come.”

Barcelona goalkeepers Ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny. [Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images]

Several sides interested in the goalie

In the coming few weeks, it will be clear where the goalkeeper will be playing next season. Several big clubs have been linked with him after his incredible performances this season, including Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United, while Barcelona and Real Madrid are also keeping an eye on him.

In fact, the Blaugrana Sporting Director, Deco, recently admitted of his affinity for Joan Garcia, while talking about the goalkeeping position of the team. Thus, with the player ready to leave Espanyol, it might not be too difficult for Barcelona to sign him, but the involvement of all these big European club can still complicate his signing.