Arsenal, Real Madrid and Manchester United in three-way battle for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia - Paper Round
Published 25/04/2025 at 22:45 GMT+1
Arsenal, Real Madrid and Manchester United are all in the hunt for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer, while his current club have identified his replacement in the form of Mallorca’s Leo Roman. Elsewhere, Leeds United currently look likely to retain manager Daniel Farke as manager for next season in the Premier League, and Dean Huijsen is wanted by clubs across Europe.
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Battle heats up for Garcia
The Mirror reports that Espanyol hope to sign Leo Roman from Mallorca in the summer amid speculation that current goalkeeper Joan Garcia could leave.
Both Arsenal and Real Madrid are mentioned as potential destinations for the Spaniard as they look to strengthen their squad.
The paper writes: "Arsenal have received a boost in their bid to sign goalkeeper Joan Garcia as Espanyol identify a replacement for their current No.1. The La Liga side are eyeing a deal for Mallorca ace Leo Roman, per reports in Spain.
"Roman has been Mallorca's back-up option this term but produced an impressive 12-save display in defeat to Barcelona earlier this week. Espanyol have turned their attention to the market after accepting Garcia is set to leave come the summer.
"Roman is under contract at Mallorca until 2026 with the Balearic side set to cash in. Espanyol are interested in his €10m (£8.53m) release clause but could yet face competition from Valencia who need to replace Liverpool-bound Giorgi Mamardashvili.
"The 23-year-old Garcia meanwhile has a release clause of €25 million (£20.8m), which will rise to €30m (£25m) in the last 15 days of the transfer window."
United also keen on Garcia
The Sun, meanwhile, relays news from Spain which suggests that Garcia is also a target for Manchester United.
Andre Onana has been under pressure at Old Trafford and could be sold to a Saudi Arabian side. Diogo Costa of Porto is another option.
The paper reports: "The Red Devils could decide to cash-in on Andre Onana this summer amid interest from Saudi Arabian sides.
"United's No. 1 has had another season blighted by errors, but he is keen to stay and fight for his place under Ruben Amorim.
"However, Espanyol keeper Garcia has emerged as Onana's possible replacement.
"Reports in Spain claim United have 'made an approach' to 'tempt' the 23-year-old into moving to Old Trafford before making an official offer.
"Garcia is said to have a £21 million release clause that rises to £25m towards the end of the summer transfer window."
Farke set for Leeds stay
Despite recent speculation over his future at Elland Road, Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is expected to stay.
Both the players and the owners of the Championship club are confident in the German coach.
The Athletic claims: "With promotion secured and the title to chase, the right manager is clearly key to Leeds’ upcoming Premier League survival bid. According to sources The Athletic has spoken to, who all spoke under the condition of anonymity to protect relationships, the direction of travel would suggest Farke will remain as manager next season.
"As The Athletic reported after Leeds won promotion, players and ownership alike have appreciated his level-headed attitude, the way he sticks to his principles, even when external criticism has grown louder.
"Sources say board member Peter Lowy has become one of Farke’s biggest supporters. In conversations this season, chairman Paraag Marathe expressed how impressed he was with the way Farke had handled the opening weeks of his reign. The American suggested two or three of the candidates they interviewed for the job would have quit within a month because of the number of loan clauses being activated."
Huijsen favours Real
Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen has a release clause of £50 million, and is wanted by a host of top sides.
The Daily Star notes that if Real Madrid make a move for the player, the Dutchman would prefer to join the Spaniards.
The paper states: "The Spain international has turned heads with his performances for Bournemouth this season. And earlier this week, reports suggested that Chelsea were leading the chase for his signature, but it appears other clubs are ready to enter the fray.
"Arsenal, Newcastle, Tottenham, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are also reportedly eyeing the defender, who has a £50 million release clause in his contract.
"If Real Madrid were to make a formal bid, it's suggested that Huijsen would favour a move to the Spanish giants."
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