Racing Santander sporting director Chema Aragón has confirmed Arsenal‘s failure to sign Pablo García allowed them to complete his signing.
On Wednesday, the La Liga side presented their new signing Iker Luque to the media, and the director accompanied him.
When asked about the García operation, Aragón revealed Arsenal came close to securing the winger’s services and Comuniate have relayed his comments.
Arsenal’s late approach
The 20-year-old came through the ranks of Real Betis’ academy and made his first team debut in January 2025.
He played 33 matches for Manuel Pellegrini’s side, managing three goals and an assist, and this didn’t go unnoticed in England.
Hull City and Wolverhampton Wanderers have shown interest in the young attacker. Last month, Sport Witness covered a report from Spain explaining that the Tigers were about to make an offer.
Sergej Jakirović’s side didn’t make progress while the newly promoted La Liga side signed the winger from Real Betis on deadline day. Prior to that, he came close to securing a move to Arsenal.
Director says Arsenal move was close
Chema Aragón revealed Racing Santander’s initial plan was to sign Pablo García on loan.
The official doesn’t explain why Mikel Arteta’s side failed to complete this operation. This saw Racing Santander change their plan and sign the youngster on a permanent transfer.
“It’s true that it seemed like the deal with Arsenal was done. Then we also came in on loan, and well, yesterday things changed,” he said.
“It reminds me of Gustavo (Puerta) in that respect. And what seemed like it was going to be a loan turned into a permanent deal, a shared ownership, but oh well.”
The Spanish media are reporting that Racing Santander paid around €5-5.5m for 50% of his rights.
Aragón has refused to confirm the exact figure and adds that it’s less than the reported price.
“I’m not going to mention the exact amount, as you know, but I’ve already given you a rough estimate of the investment,” Aragón explained
