According to a report by Jose Felix Diaz of MARCA Barcelona is interested in Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia. He shares the same agent as Olmo, and the club has told the agent not to move to another club without informing Barcelona to possibly match the offer. The club has very positive reports about him. His release clause is âŹ25 million, but relegation for Espanyol will lower it. Although Relevo Deportes has reported that Espanyol will refuse to negotiate with Barcelona and will point towards his release clause as they don’t want the player to move to a city rival. It is worth analyzing why Joan Garcia can be a potential heir to Ter Stegen.
An excellent shot stopper
Like any other big club, Barca’s keeper is expected to have quick reactions to shots and make crucial saves. Joan Garcia at the tender age of 23 has amazing reflexes as the youngster has a save percentage of 73% this season. For a team that is just above the relegation spot, the Spanish keeper has only averaged 1.44 goals against him per 90.
A keeper with Sweet feet
A must-have characteristic if you want to be Barca’s keeper is being good on the ball. Joan Garcia is one of the best in La Liga when it comes to ball distribution ability as this season the youngster has averaged 17.24 passes per 90 this season, a number that will surely be higher if he has a Barca team ahead of him.
The security for high-line
Hansi Flick’s play style requires his centre-backs to be higher up the pitch almost to the halfway line. This often puts Barca in a difficult position if a runner manages to escape the offside trap. In a situation like this, the keeper is expected to come out of his penalty box and clear the ball before the attacker reaches the pass. Joan Garcia is prodigious in that ability as he averages 1.12 defensive actions outside the box to put an end to counterattacks.
Joan Garcia embodies the qualities of a modern goalkeeper. Athleticism, composure, and a deep understanding of the game. Despite his young age, Garcia has already demonstrated his potential, showcasing his quality on the pitch this season. In my opinion, the youngster should be considered as an serious option to sign a keeper in the summer transfer window.