FC Barcelona set sights on securing a reliable backup for Joan García in goal
The departure of Ter Stegen and the potential non-renewal of Wojciech Szczęsny would force the board to make these changes.
Álex Remiro’s clinical exhibition against FC Barcelona has resonated far beyond the final whistle at the Reale Arena. The Real Sociedad goalkeeper was the undisputed protagonist in a victory that shook the league leaders, delivering a performance that bordered on perfection and systematically frustrated the "Blaugrana" attack. In Barcelona, his display sparked more than just admiration; it reignited a heated debate regarding the future of the club’s goal.
While Hansi Flick’s side produced enough offensive volume to secure a blowout, they ran into an insurmountable wall. At 30 years old, Remiro anchored his team with a repertoire of decisive saves, feline reflexes, and a sense of security that galvanized the entire Basque defense. Even luck seemed to side with the veteran, as the woodwork became his greatest ally against several goal-bound strikes from the reigning La Liga champions.
The Contract Opportunity: A "Sweet Spot" for Deco
Beyond the immediate impact of the match, Remiro’s name is back on the table due to his favorable contractual situation. According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, the goalkeeper’s current deal with Real Sociedad expires in 2027. This timeline puts the San Sebastián club in a difficult position: sell him in the summer of 2026 or risk losing him for a reduced fee as he enters his final year.
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has reportedly followed Remiro for years. The technical secretariat sees him as a high-value opportunity—a proven La Liga veteran who can handle the pressure of elite competition.
The Great Goalkeeper Shake-up of 2026
The interest in Remiro is fueled by the unprecedented instability in Barcelona's goalkeeping department. The "Girona" rumors surrounding Marc-André ter Stegen have gained significant momentum; the German icon is reportedly considering a move to the neighboring club for a new challenge. Meanwhile, Iñaki Peña is currently gaining minutes on loan at Elche, and the future of Wojciech Szczesny remains a short-term enigma with no clear path toward a contract extension.
Currently, the young Joan García has established himself as the starter, but the board believes the squad needs a "heavyweight" to provide either veteran competition or a reliable rotation option. Remiro fits this profile perfectly.
The €10 Million Bargain
Tactically, Remiro is a "Flick-style" keeper. He is comfortable playing high off his line and possesses the passing range required to initiate the vertical transitions that the German coach demands. Economically, the deal is even more attractive. Estimates suggest that Real Sociedad might be willing to negotiate a transfer in the region of €10 million during the upcoming summer window.
For a club still navigating the complexities of Financial Fair Play, securing a top-three La Liga goalkeeper for such a low figure is an opportunity that is hard to ignore. "The club is monitoring Remiro’s new situation very closely; he is a keeper they have always liked, though much is yet to be defined," insiders suggest.
As it stands, Álex Remiro is no longer just an opponent to respect; he is a primary target. His performance in San Sebastián may have been the ultimate "job interview" for a move to the Camp Nou, and as the 2026 summer market approaches, his name will likely dominate the headlines in Catalonia.