Liverpool have been linked with a move for Arsenal target Joan Garcia
Liverpool have entered the race for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, a player linked with a move to Arsenal. As the transfer window nears its close, Liverpool are making an 11th-hour attempt to secure the highly-rated Spanish shot-stopper, potentially disrupting Arsenal’s plans.
The Reds’ interest in Garcia comes at a time when the club is already deeply engaged in negotiations for another La Liga goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia. As things stand, Liverpool are close to finalizing a deal for Mamardashvili, although there is a possibility that the Georgian international might stay on loan at Valencia rather than immediately joining the Premier League. This development has led the Reds to explore additional options, with Garcia emerging as a viable target.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Garcia has been ongoing since June, with reports indicating that the Gunners had reached a personal agreement with the 23-year-old goalkeeper. The Gunners’ strategy was to bring Garcia in as a backup option to David Raya initially, with a view to grooming him as a future first-choice goalkeeper. The young Spaniard is highly regarded for his reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and potential to grow into a top-tier keeper.
The competition for Garcia’s signature has also drawn the interest of Girona, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation. Mundo Deportivo’s Espanyol correspondent, Sergio Escario, suggests that the mention of Liverpool’s interest could be a tactical move to pressure Arsenal and other suitors into making a quicker decision.
Liverpool’s late move for Garcia could be seen as a strategic play, not only to secure a promising talent but also to put pressure on Arsenal in the final stages of the transfer window. While the Reds are well-stocked in the goalkeeping department with Alisson Becker as the undisputed number one, adding a young, talented keeper like Garcia could be a smart long-term investment.
Garcia’s potential to develop into a top goalkeeper aligns with Liverpool’s approach to building for the future. At 23, he has time on his side to learn from one of the best in the business, Alisson, and eventually compete for the starting role. Moreover, his addition would provide Liverpool with greater depth and security in the goalkeeping position, particularly if there are any departures in the near future.
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Landing both Mamardashvili and Garcia could future-proof Liverpool’s goalkeeping department while also likely spelling the end for Caoimhim Kelleher’s time at Anfield. While the former can take over the reins from Alisson in the long-term, the links to the latter appear to be just rumours.
Whether the Reds will surprise us by bringing in two goalkeepers in the same window remains to be seen. Arsenal are clearly in the driving seat and are close to landing the Espanyol man. Even if we are truly interested, it is possible that we made the move too late.
