Catalan media outlets are unanimously reporting that Barcelona has completed its first summer deal.
This deal is the signing of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, which will cost Barça a mere €25 million.
Garcia has been linked with Barcelona since the end of La Liga. Initially, it was reported that the player refused to betray Espanyol and move to their eternal rivals. Later, it was reported that he would join Barça, but would be loaned out.
According to recent reports, Barcelona officials have reached an agreement with Garcia on all the details, and within a few days, the release clause will be activated and his signing will be officially completed.
The 22-year-old has received assurances from sporting director Deco and coach Hansi Flick that he will not be confined to the bench next season.
Because of these guarantees, Garcia, a Barcelona fan since childhood, accepted the move immediately, despite the club’s assurances that his loan move would not proceed and that his chances of starting the game were equal to those of Ter Stegen, with the decision to be made by Flick depending on the performances of both players.
At the same time, Sky Sports Germany confirmed that Ter Stegen has no intention of leaving Barcelona despite being aware of Garcia’s planned arrival and the likelihood of him starting.
The German still believes he is Barcelona’s best goalkeeper and can guarantee a starting spot. Furthermore, the salary he receives at Camp Nou would not be comparable to any other club, even if he moved to the Saudi League.
It is worth noting that Szczesny has agreed to renew his contract with Barcelona for another year, and Barcelona’s plan is for Ter Stegen to leave. However, the experienced goalkeeper is determined to continue and play in the starting lineup so he can be included in the German national team for the 2026 World Cup.
