Latest developments
Whisper+ analysis
- Aston Villa eyeing summer move for Joan Garcia.
- The Espanyol goalkeeper is attracting significant transfer interest.
- Garcia has a release clause in his contract.
Authenticity (3/5): Villa targeting Garcia
Garcia is widely expected to leave Espanyol this summer, with the goalkeeper attracting interest from the likes of Arsenal and Real Madrid.
According to Cadena SER, Aston Villa are also in the race to sign the shot-stopper in the upcoming transfer window. The report claims that the Villans are ready to push for a ‘fast-track deal' in a bid to win the race for Garcia's signature.
Value (4/5): Garcia has Espanyol release clause
The 25-year-old is under contract with Espanyol until the summer of 2028. However, as per The Mirror, his deal contains a €25m (£21m) release clause, which will increase to €30m (£25m) in the final 15 days of the summer transfer window.
Suitability (4/5): One of La Liga's best
Garcia has proven to be one of the standout goalkeepers in La Liga this season. As per FBref, Garcia is top of the charts for Post-Shot Expected Goals minus Goals Allowed, which measures the expected goals conceded, based on the quality of chances, compared to the actual goals conceded by a goalkeeper.
The shot-stopper also has the fourth-best save percentage in the Spanish top flight, helping record seven clean sheets in 32 league appearances.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Martinez competition
World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez is currently Villa's undisputed number one, and there are no obvious signs that he will leave in the near future, especially as he only signed a new long-term contract last summer until June 2029.
As a result, Garcia would face a tough task to displace the 32-year-old, but he has certainly demonstrated that he has the quality to challenge Martinez for the number one spot.
Logic (2/5): Multiple options on the table
Garcia could have a number of potential destinations available to him this summer. Arsenal, Real Madrid and Villa are all showing an interest, while there have also been links with Manchester United.
Villa may feel they are currently a stronger force than Man United on the pitch, but Garcia would surely favour a move to Arsenal or Real Madrid, as they are operating towards the top of their respective leagues.
The shot-stopper may also be reluctant to join Unai Emery's side if they fail to secure Champions League football.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
Garcia would certainly be a strong option to strengthen Villa's goalkeeping options. However, we think they may find it difficult to win the race for his signature.
