Arsenal likely to win the race for Man United goalkeeping target Joan Garcia | OneFootball

Manchester United would ideally like to revamp their goalkeeping department given Andre Onana’s woeful form this season.

The Cameroonian has been culpable for major mistakes both in the Premier League and Europa League and has earned the wrath of fans and pundits alike.

His teammates have supported him, former stars have backed him to come good but Ruben Amorim is far from pleased and the only reason his position is safe for now is because other positions are more in need of reinforcements.

Among the options being checked out is Joan Garcia of Espanyol with The Peoples Person relaying that the Red Devils have even submitted their first proposal for the Spaniard.

Garcia interest

SPORT have claimed that the 23-year-old is hugely in-demand with three of Spain’s biggest clubs — Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid all after him.

But currently Arsenal are favourites for him, which means United will likely miss out on the goalie who recently earned his first call-up to the Spain national team.

“In Spain, there are rumors about the interest of the big three. Real Madrid see him as an investment for the future, Barcelona are also interested in Joan García. Atlético de Madrid is another player in the bidding.

“After the Spanish clubs, English clubs have shown the most interest in Joan García. Arsenal is the most likely and is the one most likely to be chosen, according to transfer rumors.

“Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are followed by the two Mancunian clubs. Manchester City and Manchester United are also closely monitoring the young goalkeeper’s development. In addition to them, Bayer Leverkusen, with Spaniard Fernando Carro as general manager, is also keeping an eye on any move in Germany.”

Huge race on

He has kept seven clean-sheets this season and Espanyol coach Manolo Gonzalez has even compared him with Lionel Messi.

“Joan Garcia is going to be a global reference, no doubt about it. I really hope so, because he deserves it, both for his ability and for who he is.

“It’s like when Barcelona had Messi. There were tough matches, and Messi would resolve them. Well, we have that in goal with Joan Garcia.”

Garcia is expected to cost €25 million, a price United can only afford if they win the Europa League. Apart from Onana, both Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are also expected to depart.

Feature image Alex Caparros via Getty Images

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social