Manchester United have been presented with a great opportunity to pounce on Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, thanks to Arsenal dragging their feet.
A major shake-up is on the horizon for United’s goalkeeping department, with questions hanging over both Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir. Onana has endured another difficult season at Old Trafford, the highlight of which was his mistake-strewn performance in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final tie with Lyon.
On that occasion at the Groupama Stadium, the Cameroonian was at fault for both goals his side conceded. He was dropped for the subsequent Premier League meeting at Newcastle, as Ruben Amorim placed his faith in Bayindir.
The Turkey international didn’t fare much better at St James’ Park, conceding four goals from six shots on target and gifting the Magpies their fourth goal of the match. Bayindir’s disappointing display opened the door to Onana’s return to the team and the 29-year-old has played since.
United continue to be linked to a host of goalkeepers, with Garcia being one of them.
Garcia has enjoyed a rapid rise since establishing himself as Espanyol’s first-choice goalkeeper last season in the Segunda División. He played a key role in their promotion playoff victory before achieving Olympic success in Paris, and has since become one of La Liga’s standout performers.
Averaging nearly four saves per match, Garcia has been instrumental in keeping Espanyol clear of the relegation zone.
In the 32 top-flight appearances has made, the 23-year-old has conceded 41 goals and kept seven clean sheets.
A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United were advancing their interest in Garcia, who is also understood to be on Arsenal’s radar.
It was then revealed that the Gunners are more likely to win the race for the Sallent de Llobregat-born footballer.
But now there’s been a twist: Arsenal are hesitating and dithering over Garcia, giving United a big chance to swoop in and snap him up.
According to TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey, Arsenal are “realising it could be increasingly difficult” to sign Garcia from Espanyol in the summer.
“Graeme Bailey, TBR Football chief correspondent, understands that Garcia will be offered first-team chances in Italy, Germany and in England this summer. Arsenal still want Garcia but they are releasing that mounting interest in the goalkeeper is going to make a deal very tough.”
“Ultimately, Garcia’s decision will be key, but it’s clear why a route to a guaranteed first-team spot could be tempting, as opposed to being Raya’s understudy.”
“To that end, TBR can confirm that United are keeping checks on Garcia, as are Bournemouth on the south coast.”
Garcia has a £25m release clause contained in his contract.
Featured image Alex Caparros via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
