Arsenal set to renew pursuit of Joan Garcia in 2025

Arsenal pushed to offload Aaron Ramsdale over the summer and ultimately found a buyer in Southampton. Ramsdale joined the Saints for an initial £18m which can rise to £25m through add-ons.

A reliable back-up to David Raya was required, leading the Gunners to target Espanyol stopper, Joan Garcia.

However, despite bidding (£16.8m / $21.7m) and verbally agreeing personal terms with the goalkeeper, Espanyol held out for Garcia's full (£25m / $32.5m) release clause.

With time running out, Arsenal pulled out and moved for Bournemouth veteran Neto instead. The 35-year-old quickly arrived on a season-long loan.

But according to a fresh update from TBR Football, Arsenal and Edu want to return for Garcia at some stage in 2025.

Garcia is once again being lined up by the Gunners who don't intend to extend Neto's stay beyond one season.

A recent report from Mundo Deportivo claimed Garcia's release clause dropped from $30m to $25m upon the summer window closing.

The reduced rate will remain in play until the mid-way point of the upcoming winter window on January 16.

As such, Arsenal reportedly have the chance to sign Garcia for $5m below the base figure of the clause if making their move early in the January window.

Another factor to consider is Mundo Deportivo's claim Garcia's clause will increase by €5m if he receives a call-up to the senior Spanish national side in the November international break.

If Arsenal do make a second attempt to sign Garcia, they would have to convince the Espanyol starter to assume a bench role behind Raya at the Emirates. But given Garcia agreed personal terms with Arsenal over the summer, that should not be an issue.

In the event Arsenal deem Garcia's signing too expensive for the second time, young Aston Villa stopper, Oliwier Zych, is an alternative target in their sights. Sunderland's Anthony Patterson was also mentioned by TBR Football.

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