Real Madrid have contacted Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia’s representatives, according to reports in Spain.
The 23-year-old has become one of the most coveted young goalkeepers in Europe following an impressive season in La Liga.
Newcastle United and Arsenal are among the Premier League clubs tracking him, while Barcelona have also shown interest.
Madrid have now entered the fray. Although no formal move has been made, sources close to the situation suggest the club has reached out to Garcia’s camp to register their interest.
His €25 million release clause is seen as excellent value, particularly after a breakout year in which he established himself as a starter and showed qualities that have drawn comparisons to Thibaut Courtois.
Madrid’s situation in goal is delicately poised. Courtois remains the first choice, but Andriy Lunin’s future is uncertain.
The Ukrainian has one year left on his contract, and his agent, Jorge Mendes, is reportedly exploring offers above €20m that could tempt Madrid to sell.
If Lunin departs, the club would need to move quickly – and Garcia is among the leading options under consideration.
However, the player’s camp is treading carefully. Garcia wants regular game time and is unlikely to accept a back-up role, even at a club of Madrid’s stature.#
Similar concerns have already stalled progress with Barcelona and Arsenal, where David Raya and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are well established.
Madrid, for now, are watching and waiting. They have long admired Garcia and were tracking him before he made his top-flight debut.
Now that he has done so in style, their interest has been rekindled – but whether they act will depend largely on Lunin’s situation.
