Newcastle are among the clubs ‘pushing hard’ to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer, Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo has revealed.
The Magpies are believed to be intent on landing the highly sought-after shot-stopper, but they are facing tough competition from a host of European and Premier League clubs.
The likes of Arsenal and Aston Villa are among his admirers in England, while Barcelona, Bayer Leverkusen and Napoli have also shown their appreciation for the Catalan goalkeeper.
Mundo Deportivo claims Garcia will meet with his agent Juanma Lopez this week to discuss his market options and potentially decide where to take his career next.
Joan Garcia Set for Espanyol Departure
Newcastle among the clubs keen on the 24-year-old
Espanyol’s Joan Garcia
According to Mundo Deportivo, Garcia is ‘flooded’ with offers after an impressive debut La Liga campaign, which saw him concede 51 goals and keep eight clean sheets in 38 appearances.
The ‘outstanding’ 24-year-old could prove a real bargain for interested clubs, as his release clause stands at just €25m (£21m), which would place him among Espanyol’s top three most expensive sales ever.
However, despite interest from Newcastle and other English clubs, Barcelona are believed to be leading the race for Garcia at the moment, with both sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick seen as particular admirers.
The report claims Garcia will assess all offers on the table carefully at the end of this week and wants to play regular minutes at his next club.
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Garcia has made six appearances for Spain’s national youth teams.
Newcastle are anticipating a busy summer transfer window after qualifying for next season’s Champions League and are expected to welcome reinforcements in several key areas.
According to GIVEMESPORT sources, the Magpies are looking at potential additions in goal, at centre-back, on the right wing and up front, as they aim to bring more depth to Eddie Howe’s squad.
