Man Utd enter push for 'new De Gea' who is 'Europe's most promising young keeper'

Manchester United have entered the fray to sign Espanyol’s highly rated goalkeeper Joan Garcia, aiming to derail Arsenal’s long-standing interest in the 23-year-old La Liga star.

As United head coach Ruben Amorim seeks to address concerns over Andre Onana’s inconsistent form, the Red Devils have taken decisive steps to secure Garcia’s signature, intensifying a transfer battle that also includes Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.

Joan Garcia has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young goalkeepers, earning plaudits for his performances at Espanyol during the 2024-25 La Liga season.

The 23-year-old, who has represented Spain at the Under-21 level, boasts exceptional shot-stopping ability and composure in high-pressure situations, notably saving penalties in crucial matches.

His standout displays have attracted attention across the continent, with Arsenal having a bid rejected last summer but remaining keen to bolster their goalkeeping options.

Garcia’s release clause, set at €25 million but potentially rising to €30 million in the final 15 days of the transfer window, makes him an attainable target for top clubs.

According to COPE, Manchester United have contacted Garcia’s entourage to present an offer, signaling their intent to lead the race for his signature.

Journalist Juanma Castano reported that United’s approach came on Sunday, April 20, 2025, as they look to capitalize on doubts surrounding Onana, who has been criticized for errors, including two costly mistakes in a recent defeat to Lyon.

However, conflicting reports, such as a post from @UtdXclusive on X, suggest United have not yet made formal contact, highlighting the speculative nature of early transfer talks.

United’s interest in Garcia stems from Amorim’s dissatisfaction with Onana, who has struggled to justify his £47 million price tag since joining from Inter Milan in 2023.

With backup Altay Bayindir also failing to impress, Amorim is reportedly “desperate” to overhaul the goalkeeping department, with Garcia and Real Sociedad’s Alex Remiro among his top targets.

Garcia’s youth, penalty-saving prowess, and potential for growth align with Amorim’s long-term vision, which prioritizes dynamic players to fit his 3-4-2-1 system.

United’s 15th-place standing in the Premier League, with only 38 goals scored and a goal difference of -3, underscores the need for stability at the back.

The club’s Europa League semi-final against Athletic Bilbao offers a chance for Champions League qualification, which could enhance their appeal to talents like Garcia.

However, financial constraints under the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) require careful navigation, with potential sales of players like Marcus Rashford, Casemiro, and Victor Lindelof expected to fund new signings.

Arsenal, who have tracked Garcia for over a year, remain formidable competitors. The Gunners see him as a potential deputy or successor to David Raya, especially with Aaron Ramsdale’s future uncertain.

Real Madrid, monitoring Garcia as a long-term option, and Atletico Madrid, who prioritize him over Kepa Arrizabalaga and Mike Maignan, add further complexity.

Bayern Munich have also been linked, per Football Espana, making this a multi-club race for a goalkeeper whose stock continues to rise.

Posts on X reflect the urgency of United’s pursuit, with @Manutd_addicts calling Garcia “incredible at saving penalties” and urging swift action to fend off rivals.

Yet, skepticism persists, with some fans questioning whether United’s interest is concrete or speculative, given the lack of confirmed bids.

Critically, United’s absence from next season’s Champions League, unless they win the Europa League, could hinder their ability to attract Garcia, who may prefer clubs like Arsenal or Real Madrid with guaranteed elite competition.

Securing Garcia would be a statement of intent for United, addressing a critical weakness while outmaneuvering rivals like Arsenal.

His €25 million release clause is within United’s reach, especially if they generate funds through player sales, but the rising interest from European giants risks driving up costs or swaying Garcia elsewhere.

As Amorim rebuilds a squad rocked by Rashford’s loan to Aston Villa and Antony’s move to Real Betis, Garcia could provide the foundation for a new era at Old Trafford—if United can act decisively in a crowded transfer market.