Barcelona are set to finalise the signing of Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia this week, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen nears a surprise move to Galatasaray.
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Joan Garcia to be unveiled this weekGarcia to receive incredible pay riseTer Stegen agrees terms with GalatasarayFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Barcelona are set to announce the signing of Joan Garcia from city rivals Espanyol, with reporting that La Liga have confirmed his €25 million (£21m/$28m) release clause has been paid. The 24-year-old goalkeeper will be presented this week, with personal terms already agreed. Meanwhile, Ter Stegen has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Galatasaray amid his fury at the club's conduct surrounding the transfer, though now reports he remains defiant and vows to stay.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The Catalan giants' goalkeeping shake-up reflects their broader financial struggles. Garcia, much cheaper in salary terms, represents a long-term solution as the club look to rejuvenate the squad and comply with La Liga’s financial fair play rules. Ter Stegen’s possible departure could save the club millions in wages and unlock space for other reinforcements.
DID YOU KNOW?
The 24-year-old will jump from a €400k salary at Espanyol to €3m (£2.5m/$3.4m) at Barcelona, but couldn’t comment publicly until La Liga validated the clause payment. Meanwhile, Ter Stegen, one of Barca’s top earners with three years left on his contract, edges closer to a shock move to Galatasaray who recently signed Leroy Sane and are now targeting another high-profile addition.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?
Once La Liga approves the transfer, Barcelona will officially present Garcia. The goalkeeper is expected to release a farewell statement to Espanyol fans. On the other side, Ter Stegen’s uncertainty continues.
