The goalkeeping division at FC Barcelona may very well be set for some adjustments earlier than the following season kicks off.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who’s making nice progress in his restoration from a knee damage, is anticipated to reclaim the No. 1 spot as soon as he returns – which might occur earlier than the tip of this season.
As for his backup, there could also be a change incoming as Inaki Pena’s future is up within the air after he has fallen behind emergency signing Wojciech Szczesny in Hansi Flick’s pecking order.
The La Masia graduate’s contract expires subsequent yr and will transfer on in the summertime, leaving an open spot within the goalkeeping division.
Barcelona like Joan Garcia
Amidst the scenario, journalist Sique Rodriguez experiences that Barcelona are nice admirers of Spanish goalkeeper Joan Garcia who performs for his or her bitter native rivals RCD Espanyol.
The 23-year-old shot-stopper has grow to be a key participant for Manolo Gonzalez’s aspect. After proving himself within the Segunda Division final season, he has taken on higher accountability this time period in La Liga.
Joan Garcia on Barcelona’s radar. (Picture by Alex Caparros/Getty Photographs)
Thus far, the Spaniard has stored 4 clear sheets for a crew battling relegation, and his saves are proving essential of their battle for survival. His performances haven’t gone unnoticed in Barcelona camp.
Resulting from monetary constraints, Espanyol will probably be pressured to promote him earlier than June 30 to unlock the 1:1 spending rule and start a squad rebuild.
A summer time transfer to Barcelona unlikely
Nevertheless, if Barcelona intend to signal Garcia, they have to act swiftly because the goalkeeper can also be attracting vital curiosity from Arsenal, who’re prepared to supply €25 million to signal him.
PSG supervisor Luis Enrique can also be monitoring the 2024 Olympics Gold winner.
Moreover, as issues stand, it seems that Barça are planning to supply Szczesny, whose contract expires this summer time, a one-year extension to maintain him for yet one more season.
In that state of affairs, Barcelona’s technique for the goalkeeping division subsequent season can be to financial institution on Ter Stegen and Szczesny, making a summer time transfer for Joan Garcia unlikely at this level.