La Liga
The Catalan derby between Espanyol and FC Barcelona not only promises excitement on the field, but it could also be crucial in the sporting planning of the blaugrana team, especially in goalkeeping. Joan García, goalkeeper for Espanyol, will be closely watched by Barça's coaches, who have him marked as a top option if Wojciech Szczesny decides not to extend his stay at Camp Nou.
The Pole, who arrived urgently to cover Ter Stegen's absence and has responded reliably, has a two-year contract renewal proposal on the table. However, he has not made a definitive decision yet: he is torn between continuing his professional career or retiring and stepping away from top-level competition, possibly in Marbella, where he has expressed a desire to live.
Doubts Lead to Seeking Another Goalkeeper
As reported by the newspaper Sport, this uncertainty has prompted Barça to activate a Plan B, with Joan García emerging as one of LaLiga's most promising goalkeepers. His performance with Espanyol has been outstanding, and his name has gained strength within the Barça offices. Moreover, his buyout clause could decrease from 30 to 15 million in the event of Espanyol's relegation, an opportunity that several European clubs (such as Arsenal, Bournemouth, or Atlético) already have on their radar.
At Barça, aware that Iñaki Peña is not in their plans and that the youth prospects are not yet ready, they see Joan as a current and future option. They will monitor him closely this Sunday. The derby will not only be a test of rivalry but could also determine the fate of the blaugrana goal.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El portero que el Barcelona baraja como alternativa a Szczesny
