Young Spanish goalkeeper Joan García, considered one of the brightest talents in his position, has reportedly agreed to join FC Barcelona. The 23-year-old, currently at Espanyol, has verbally committed to the move, turning down other offers from La Liga and abroad in favor of Barça’s project.
García, a graduate of Espanyol’s youth academy, has steadily climbed the ranks to become their top-choice goalkeeper. His impressive displays in both Segunda and La Liga this season caught the attention of multiple clubs, but Barcelona’s vision and long-term plan won him over.
Discussions between the player’s camp and Barça have been ongoing for weeks, and while the official paperwork is still pending, both sides have a clear agreement. García is prepared to initially go out on loan if needed, with Valencia being the likely destination. The La Liga side is reportedly open to the move, and it would allow García to gain top-flight experience while remaining part of Barça’s future plans.
Despite the club’s focus on rejuvenation, head coach Hansi Flick seems inclined to rely on experienced goalkeepers like Marc-André ter Stegen and expected signing Wojciech Szczesny. Ter Stegen has had injury troubles recently, and Szczesny, though dependable, turns 35 this year, raising questions about the long-term direction.
García fits Barça’s ideal profile for the future—young, local, talented, and determined. His signing aligns with president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco’s goal of reinforcing the Catalan identity within the squad.
Still, Flick prefers experience early in his tenure and may hesitate to hand the starting role to a young, untested keeper. However, García is confident in his ability to challenge for the No. 1 spot soon and doesn’t want to merely warm the bench.
The fanbase is divided—some eager for new blood, others wary of moving on from veterans. Regardless, García’s potential arrival signals a clear shift toward youth development.
Barcelona is expected to finalize the deal soon, with a transfer fee of €6–8 million, possibly including bonuses. For García, the move is more than a transfer—it’s a chance to become a long-term fixture at Camp Nou and lead the next generation
