Joan Garcia says yes to Barcelona after final meeting with agents, five-year deal agreed – reports

Barcelona have taken a significant step in shaping their goalkeeping department for the future. According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Joan Garcia, the highly rated Espanyol shot-stopper, has given the green light to a move to the Camp Nou following a final round of discussions between his representatives and the Catalan giants.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper is now on the brink of becoming a Barcelona player, with the two parties having reportedly agreed to terms on a five-year contract that will run until June 2030. Sources close to the negotiations have indicated that the deal includes full assurances of Garcia’s registration as part of the first-team squad, a condition that was critical in getting the agreement over the line.

Barcelona are now expected to activate Garcia’s €25 million release clause in the coming days. Once the clause is triggered, Espanyol will be powerless to stop the transfer, and Garcia will be free to officially sign with Barça. The deal could be made official as early as next week, depending on the completion of medical tests and administrative formalities.

Joan Garcia has been one of the standout performers for Espanyol this season. He played a key role in their successful campaign that saw them secure promotion back to La Liga after just one year in the second tier. His consistent performances between the posts and calm presence under pressure drew attention from several clubs in Spain, but it is Barcelona who have moved most decisively.

Despite his young age, Garcia has shown remarkable maturity and leadership qualities. His quick reflexes, command of the box, and ability to play out from the back make him a perfect fit for the Barça philosophy. Club insiders have reportedly been monitoring his progress for the past two seasons and see him as an ideal long-term solution in goal.

The timing of the deal is also significant. With Marc-André ter Stegen now 33 years old and slowly approaching the twilight of his career, Barcelona are keen to gradually transition to a new era in goalkeeping. While Ter Stegen remains the undisputed No.1 for now, the club believes that Garcia can eventually take over that mantle in the coming years.

Garcia’s potential arrival signals a major shift in Barcelona’s squad planning. In recent years, the club has faced criticism for failing to plan adequately for the future, particularly in goal. Signing Garcia is a clear indication that the current board, led by Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, intends to avoid similar mistakes.

The five-year contract on the table also reflects the club’s confidence in Garcia’s long-term value. Sources close to the negotiations say the contract includes performance-based bonuses, a gradual salary progression, and a clear development plan within the squad. It’s a structured commitment that benefits both the player and the club.

Interestingly, there is no official comment yet from Barcelona or Espanyol regarding the deal, as both sides are keeping matters under wraps until the release clause is officially paid. However, several credible Spanish journalists, including those linked with Mundo Deportivo and Catalunya Ràdio, have confirmed the key details of the transfer.

Espanyol fans may feel disappointed by the move, especially given Garcia’s role in their recent success. But insiders at the club acknowledge that it was always going to be difficult to retain the player if a top-tier team came calling. The release clause was designed to allow Garcia a chance to move upward in his career without complications.

For Garcia, the switch to Barcelona is a massive leap in his career. From playing in the second division a year ago to potentially wearing the colors of one of the biggest clubs in the world, the trajectory of his rise has been nothing short of remarkable. It also puts him in direct contention for a place in the Spanish national team, where competition for the goalkeeper spot remains fierce.

Barcelona’s decision to go for Garcia may also influence their wider transfer strategy this summer. With the club still managing financial constraints under La Liga’s salary cap regulations, they are expected to make only targeted signings. Investing €25 million in a goalkeeper reflects the club’s belief in Garcia’s long-term importance and value retention.

There are also marketing benefits to this move. Garcia is a product of Catalan football and has a strong following among local fans. Bringing in a Catalan goalkeeper from Espanyol – their city rivals – may also have symbolic value for the Barcelona faithful, reaffirming the club’s commitment to regional identity.

The next steps in the deal are likely to unfold quickly. Once the release clause is paid, Garcia is expected to undergo a routine medical examination before being unveiled as a new Barcelona signing. The presentation could take place at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, where Barça are currently playing their home games.

With this deal nearing completion, Barcelona may now shift their focus to reinforcing other areas of the squad, such as midfield depth and attacking options. But for now, the signing of Joan Garcia represents a critical piece of the puzzle for the Blaugrana’s future.

The message is clear: Barcelona are not just planning for the present — they’re building for the next generation. And Joan Garcia could be one of the key cornerstones in that future.