Barcelona set to win Joan Garcia race! La Liga champions ready to beat Arsenal and Man City to Espanyol goalkeeper as agreement now 'very advanced'

RCD Espanyol de Barcelona v Real Valladolid CF - La Liga EA Sports

Barcelona are closing in on a deal to sign goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol, with the Spanish champions in a rush to get the transfer finalised.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Barca have been working on a move for the 24-year-old in recent weeks, with Joan Garcia himself confirming he is open to a summer departure. However, Hansi Flick's team are not the only suitors, with Arsenal and Manchester City also eyeing the Espanyol academy product.

RCD Espanyol de Barcelona v UD Las Palmas - La Liga EA Sports

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Barca appear certain to snap up the shot-stopper, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that talks over a long-term contract are advanced and the club are confident a deal will be finalised in the coming days.

DID YOU KNOW?

The transfer will likely cost Barcelona €25 million (£21m/$28m) due to the release clause in his contract. Had the goalkeeper been called up to the Spain national team, that would have risen by a further €5m, but coach Luis de la Fuente left him out of his latest squad.

RCD Espanyol de Barcelona v FC Barcelona - La Liga EA Sports

WHAT NEXT FOR BARCA?

The Catalan club will hope to have the contract wrapped up, while it has been reported Wojciech Szczesny is eager stay on as a backup option next season.