Arsenal have tabled their first offer for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Writing on his X account, Romano said that the Gunners have made a bid worth €20m (£16.8m), including add-ons.
That amount is €10m (£8.4m) below Garcia’s €30m (£25.2m) release clause, which is the figure that Espanyol are demanding for their no.1.
It is believed that the La Liga side are not willing to lower their demands so it remains to be seen if a compromise can be reached before the transfer window shuts on Friday night.
What do fans need to know about Garcia?
If you want an in-depth profile about the Spaniard, you can read our article here but, to summarise, he hasn’t been a regular starter at Espanyol for that long.
He replaced first-choice Fernando Pacheco in goal for the closing months of last campaign before the club’s promotion back to the top flight. He has started all three league matches so far this season.
Why are Arsenal keen on signing another keeper?
Aaron Ramsdale has agreed a move to Southampton. The Saints will pay £18m upfront for the 26-year-old, with another £7m due in performance-related add-ons.
After losing his place to David Raya at the start of last season, Ramsdale has been pressing to leave the Emirates. The Gunners are, however, very keen to sign a replacement before Friday’s deadline.
Garcia is their no.1 target, having already agreed personal terms with the shot-stopper, but they have also considered alternatives. Wolves’ David Bentley has been looked at but they have struggled to reach an agreement over a transfer fee with his club.
Wigan’s Sam Tickle has also emerged as another option over the past 24/48 hours. There is a feeling, though, that the 22-year-old would be brought in as third choice, with Garcia being the main understudy for Raya.
