How a dinner conversation with Deco convinced Joan Garcia to sign for Barcelona | OneFootball

In a recent report from Mundo Deportivo, it has been revealed that Barcelona intensified their efforts to land Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia immediately after the conclusion of the 2024/25 La Liga campaign.

The 24-year-old shot-stopper was invited to a private dinner with Barcelona’s sporting director Deco and club legend Bojan Krkic in an attempt to finalise his signing.

The meeting, which took place in Barcelona, was part of a long-standing plan by Deco, who had already initiated contact with Garcia’s agents.

But with the goalkeeper’s future still uncertain, especially with Premier League interest mounting, the Catalan club felt a face-to-face pitch was necessary to show just how serious they were.

What was discussed?

Garcia, accompanied by his agent Juanma Lopez and his partner, was welcomed by Deco and Bojan for a detailed conversation about the sporting project.

Joan Garcia is set to join Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Barça executives explained that while Garcia would have to fight for his place, as is expected at a club of this stature, he was being considered as a key figure for both the present and long-term future of the team.

The timing of the dinner was not coincidental. Garcia had insisted that no decisions would be made until Espanyol’s top-flight status was secured, which was only confirmed on the final day of the season.

With that resolved, and interest from Manchester City and other Premier League clubs coming into play, Deco moved quickly.

There was a second meeting

Following the initial dinner, a second meeting was held, this time with Garcia’s family and representatives.

The player reportedly left both gatherings impressed and excited by the project. However, despite Barça’s strong proposal and the emotional appeal of staying in Catalonia, Garcia was yet to give his final approval.

However, all that has changed as Garcia has decided to join Barcelona after all these meetings, with the Blaugrana deciding to activate his €25 million release clause.