Last week, AS stated Arsenal have made contact to sign Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García. It was also said the Premier League could make an approach if Aaron Ramsdale were to leave the Emirates.
On Wednesday, multiple claims from England stated Southampton have agreed a deal with Arsenal to buy Ramsdale.
His exit will leave Mikel Arteta with David Raya as the only experienced goalkeeper in the squad.
Mundo Deportivo state Arsenal want to replace Ramsdale with García. The 23-year-old has already reached a ‘verbal agreement’ with the north London club.
Arsenal have to negotiate a deal with Espanyol, to secure the Spainard’s services. The La Liga side aren’t willing to negotiate and currently refer to his €30m release clause.
If Espanyol were to stand firm, Mundo state the English club could activate the clause.
After Espanyol’s goalless draw against Atlético Madrid on Wednesday, manager Manolo González was asked about the possibility of losing García. His comments are relayed by La Grada.
“I can’t do anything if a team comes and pays the clause. I’m very happy that he’s here… I think he will continue, but if a team comes and pays the clause, I can’t do anything. For now, I am happy that he is here and at his level. It is a luxury to have him here,” he said.
The manager believes García’s €30m clause won’t be exercised before Friday night.
“I don’t think he’s going to come out, if I have to eat it, I’ll eat it. I think he won’t come out, not because he doesn’t have a level but because there’s €30m that has to be paid as a clause,” González explained.
“I will try not to let him go and I can’t say anything more. I’m very happy with him.”
There should be more updates on this case in the next few hours.
