FC Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Spanish goalkeeper Joan García from city rivals RCD Espanyol after activating his €25 million release clause plus CPI. The 24-year-old will sign a six-year contract running until June 30, 2031, in a private ceremony at the club’s offices this Friday.
Born in Sallent de Llobregat in Catalonia, García’s journey to the elite began not in goal, but outfield—until he followed in his older brother’s footsteps and picked up the gloves. That decision set him on a remarkable trajectory through youth clubs like Manresa and Damm, before joining Espanyol at age 15.
García rose steadily through the ranks, eventually becoming a mainstay in Spain’s youth national teams. His international pedigree was cemented in 2024 when he helped Spain clinch Olympic gold in Paris. Though he is yet to earn a senior call-up, that milestone appears to be on the horizon—and now as a Barça player.
His breakthrough came in the 2023/24 season when he became Espanyol’s undisputed No.1 and helped the club return to La Liga. This past campaign, García was instrumental in Espanyol’s survival in the top flight, registering a league-best 146 saves and topping the charts in goals prevented according to advanced metrics.
His consistency, reflexes, and sharp anticipation earned him admiration across Europe, but it was Barcelona’s sporting director Deco who moved decisively to secure his signature. Club sources say the deal is not only for the present but a clear investment in the future.
“Joan García brings youth, quality, and proven performance,” said a source close to the negotiations. “At just 24, he is already one of the most complete goalkeepers in Spain.”
The Catalan shot-stopper will now compete for a place in the Barcelona lineup, likely starting as backup to Marc-André ter Stegen while preparing to take over in the seasons to come.
Barcelona fans can expect to see García don the blaugrana with pride, bringing with him the hunger of a rising star and the calm presence of a seasoned goalkeeper.
