Barcelona closing in on one of Europe’s most coveted keepers, dithering Ineos are running out of time – report

One of the key areas set for improvement at Manchester United this summer is the goalkeeping department, as Ruben Amorim looks to reshape his squad.

Neither Andre Onana nor Altay Bayındır has given the position the authority it demands.

Onana, compared to his performances at Inter Milan and Ajax, has looked a shadow of himself, while Bayındır has left more questions than answers.

Amorim’s goalkeeper search

Recently, reports outlined the qualities Amorim wants in his next number one.

The Portuguese tactician reportedly prefers a goalkeeper who excels in the basics, a reliable shot-stopper who avoids excessive risk-taking seen in modern-day keepers.

While those specifications all but sealed Onana’s fate, they led some to identify Espanyol’s Joan García as the ideal signing.

Interestingly, reports suggested that INEOS planned to hold talks with García’s camp, while it also emerged that Barcelona were unlikely to pose much of a challenge in securing his signature.

However, the situation has now taken a turn.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are closing in on the signing of the La Liga Sofascore Goalkeeper of the Season.

Anticipating strong competition from Premier League clubs, the Spanish champions are moving quickly to agree on personal terms.

Romano confirmed:

“The agreement between Barcelona and Joan García on a long-term deal is now very advanced, almost done.

“Negotiations are underway with the Spanish goalkeeper, with the club confident of securing his green light in the coming days.

“Barcelona want to get it done as soon as possible to anticipate Premier League interest.”

🚨🔵🔴 The agreement between Barça and Joan García on long term deal is now very advanced, almost done.

Negotiations underway with Spanish GK with club confident to get his green light in the upcoming days.

Barça want to get it done asap and anticipate Premier League clubs. pic.twitter.com/xYIGPLyOHp

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 31, 2025

One could argue there is still a chance to convince the 24-year-old to reconsider a move to Camp Nou.

However, with negotiations at an advanced stage, he seems destined to join Hansi Flick’s side.

Garcia alternative

If García’s move to Barcelona goes through, it will undoubtedly be a setback for INEOS, who are eager to lend support to Amorim’s project.

Now, they must look elsewhere for a top-class goalkeeper capable of strengthening United’s defence.

One emerging option is Benfica’s Anatoliy Trubin, who has been linked with an Old Trafford switch, as per reports relayed by The Peoples Person.

Like García, Trubin’s signing will not be straightforward as Manchester City are also in the race.

However, with the disappointment of missing out on García, United must be motivated to secure his services.

Given the persistent doubts over Onana’s suitability, sticking with him as first choice next season would be a major risk.

It’s game on for INEOS — time to secure Amorim his ideal number one.

Featured image Alex Caparros via Getty Images

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