Joan Garcia (foto: Getty Images)
Barcelona wants Joan Garcia as Marc-André ter Stegen’s future replacement, but plans to loan him to Valencia first to gain experience. His €20m clause attracts serious interest.
Barcelona are working on a long-term succession plan in goal and have reportedly set their sights on Joan Garcia, the rising star of Catalan rivals Espanyol.
According to Cadena SER, the 24-year-old keeper is seen as a potential future No.1 at Camp Nou, though the club plans a patient approach given Marc-André ter Stegen remains the undisputed starter.
Garcia played a key role in keeping Espanyol in La Liga this season and has attracted attention across Europe thanks to his quick reflexes, composure, and solid distribution. His relatively low release clause of €20 million has only intensified interest from top clubs.
Given the fierce rivalry between Barcelona and Espanyol, transfers between the clubs are rare, making this pursuit even more intriguing. The most notable similar case is that of Iván de la Peña, who moved between the clubs during his career, though in different circumstances.
Barcelona's reported plan would see Garcia sign from Espanyol this summer, but he would be loaned to Valencia for the 2025/26 season. Valencia are in the market for a new goalkeeper, with Giorgi Mamardashvili expected to leave this summer.
Next season, Barcelona aim to have ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny as their goalkeeping duo. The Polish veteran, out of contract at Juventus, is being targeted as experienced cover, allowing Garcia to develop on loan before returning to challenge for the No.1 shirt more gradually.
Ter Stegen’s contract runs until 2028, but Barcelona are already preparing for the future — and Joan Garcia is their top target to inherit the gloves.