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Arsenal agreed terms with Joan Garcia, who is wanted by at least six clubs from around Europe
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Arsenal's transfer saga involving Joan Garcia looks like resolving itself ahead of serious competition. At least three Premier League clubs continue to be on high alert over the signing of one of La Liga's up-and-coming goalkeepers, with Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United all showing interest in the 24-year-old, who could cost as little as £20m this summer due to his release clause in Spain. Speaking on the rumours surrounding his future, the Spain Under-21 international is keeping his cards close to his chest, with Barcelona, Napoli and AC Milan also watching his situation. Having kept eight clean sheets in La Liga, yet played every minute for Spanish strugglers Espanyol, suitors from around Europe are beginning to line up for the man in question as the summer window approaches. Local rivals Barcelona remain the favourites, but with his latest comments causing quite the stir, a Premier League move may still be on the horizon. Joan Garcia had been previously reported to have agreed terms with Arsenal, and looked to be on his way to England after a standout campaign in Spain for Manolo Gonzalez's outfit. But now, AS in Spain are relaying information from Cadena SER that the Parakeets no. 1 has a deal in principle to join Catalan rivals, Barcelona. The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week. The move would be highly controversial with the two clubs having a fierce rivalry – ex-Espanyol man Mauricio Pochettino one claimed he'd rather work on a farm than move to Camp Nou – and to see Garcia make the switch would be a huge shock. At 24, Garcia has already been praised for his quickness, poise, and quick reactions, whilst ranking highly for crosses faced and crosses stopped in Europe's top six leagues by FBref. "There's always news coming out in football and there are things out there [about me], " Garcia told TV3 when asked about the possibility of signing for Barcelona this summer. "It is not always the case that what comes out corresponds with the reality. I am just staying calm and any decision which needs to be made I will think about with those close to me, picking the best option for me. " In Four Four Two's view, geographically, a move to Barcelona makes the most sense, but we can't rule out the Premier League's pulling power, especially given Unai Emery is desperate for a new goalkeeper. Newcastle United could still have their say, especially with European football once again on their slate next season. Matthew Holt writes freelance for Four Four Two, amongst others, and boasts previous experience at GOAL and SPORTBible. He now works with us alongside his time at Manchester United and Reach PLC, aiding with online content for the website. Career highs include working at the FA Cup final, as well as scoring at Old Trafford in front of the Stretford End. A long-term sufferer of his beloved Scunthorpe United, he is often seen on the padel court, as well as occasionally as a six-a-side call-up.
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