Joan Garcia does not close the doors on Barcelona – ‘Will choose what is best for me’ | OneFootball

The discourse surrounding FC Barcelona over the past couple of days has been dominated by their pursuit of RCD Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia.

The 24-year-old shot-stopper has emerged as a top target for the La Liga champions as they look to future-proof their goalkeeping position.

However, given his strong ties with Espanyol, there have been some concerns about whether he would be willing to make the switch to their Catalan rivals.

In fact, reports earlier today suggested that the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medalist will not join Barça and instead move to the Premier League.

Joan Garcia leaves the door open

Speaking to TV3 earlier today, Joan Garcia has opened up on the speculations surrounding his future, wherein he refused to rule out a move to Barcelona in the summer.

“In football, news is out all the time, and many things are said. But not all of it turns out to be true. I will tell you – I am very calm,” stated Garcia.

Will Joan Garcia leave Espanyol for Barcelona? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

When probed about Barça in particular, he replied: “What I have to decide, I’ll decide with those close to me, and we’ll choose what is best for me. I’m confident that is what will happen.”

Garcia has a release clause worth €25 million in his contract with Espanyol, which Barcelona will need to activate in order to sign him.

However, as mentioned above, given the bitter rivalry between the two clubs, there are some concerns if the goalkeeper would be willing to break ties with the Espanyol fanbase and what kind of effect it might have.

With clubs in the Premier League also interested, the ball is now in Garcia’s court and a final decision is expected in the coming days.