Arsenal target sends transfer warning after reaching agreement on summer move

Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia is drawing interest from Barcelona and from around the Premier League after Arsenal saw two bids rejected last summer for the Catalan star

Joan Garcia has admitted he would have no issues playing against Espanyol amid reports his representatives have come to an agreement to move to Barcelona. The goalkeeper, set to represent Catalonia in a friendly on Wednesday night, is expected to depart Espanyol this summer, with Arsenal and Manchester United among the candidates to sign him from abroad.

The 24-year-old has a €25million (£21m) release clause that clubs can take advantage of and Arsenal saw two bids for the shotstopper rejected last summer. There is more competition for his signature in the coming weeks however and Barcelona are keen to make the move.

Reports in Spain claim the club have an agreement in principle with Garcia's agents. A five-year contract is on the table with a bonus if he plays internationally.

Asked about crossing the divide in Catalonia, Garcia remained coy over his future despite the suggestion a move could be made in days. "At the end of the day, in football, news and things are coming out all the time," he said.

"And that's why it's a reality; it's not always like that. But, as I'm telling you, I'm very calm, and whatever decision needs to be made, I'll definitely think it over a lot with my people and choose what will be best for me. And I'm sure it will be like that."

But the young goalkeeper admitted he would be excited to play against Espanyol if the opportunity arrived. "It wouldn't be a problem to face Espanyol," he said.

"It would be nice too. These things can happen, but I try to look on the bright side of things, and if it happens, I would be excited about it."

It has been suggested that Barcelona would offer Garcia on loan to Valencia to ensure first team football should the Espanyol star make the move. Barca see Garcia as a long-term replacement for Marc-André ter Stegen,

However, a move across La Liga does not appear to be a certainty. Despite an agreement with his representatives, Garcia will have the final say in his next move.

Relevo claim that the goalkeeper prefers a move to the Premier League and Garcia has revealed he hopes his family can continue to attend matches at Estadi Cornellà-El Prat if he does depart.

"Everyone knows a little about the situation I'm in and the situation the club is in," he said at the end of the season. "Whatever happens, if I leave, I'll be proud to leave the team still in La Liga.

"I hope my family can continue coming to the stadium with a team in the top-flight and I hope that continues for many years."