It's not Dibu Martínez: The national team player who could arrive at Barça to bench Ter Stegen.

FC Barcelona is reportedly showing strong interest in Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García, with reputable football journalist Fabrizio Romano indicating that the Catalan giants are prepared to activate his release clause. This development suggests a significant move in the summer transfer window, potentially reshaping Barcelona's goalkeeping situation.

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Joan García Pons, born on May 4, 2001, in Sallent, Spain, has steadily built a reputation as a promising talent in Spanish football. His journey began at a young age, playing for local clubs before joining the youth ranks of RCD Espanyol in 2016. At Espanyol's academy, García showcased early signs of his potential, demonstrating strong reflexes, good aerial command, and a calm demeanor under pressure.

García made his senior debut for Espanyol's reserve team in 2019, gaining valuable experience in Spain's Segunda División B. His consistent performances there paved the way for his first-team debut in December 2021, in a Copa del Rey match. Shortly after, in January 2022, he made his La Liga debut, marking his entry into the top flight of Spanish football.

Over the past few seasons, García has continued his development, gradually earning more opportunities with the Espanyol senior squad. He has proven to be a reliable presence between the posts, particularly noted for his shot-stopping abilities and his capacity to organize the defense. His performances have been a bright spot for Espanyol, even amid challenging periods for the club. In the 2024-2025 season, García has had a standout campaign, with a significant number of clean sheets and impressive saves that have caught the eye of top clubs. He was even recognized with the Espanyol Male Player of the Season award for the 2023-2024 season and earned a spot in the La Liga Team of the Season for 2024-2025.

Internationally, Joan García has represented Spain at various youth levels, including the U17, U18, U19, and U21 teams. His participation in these youth national squads has provided him with experience in high-stakes environments and further honed his skills against elite young players from across Europe. In July 2024, he was part of the Spain U23 squad that secured the Olympic gold medal in men's football at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, adding a significant achievement to his burgeoning career.

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Fabrizio Romano's report highlights that FC Barcelona's interest is serious, with the club reportedly willing to pay García's release clause to secure his services. This suggests that Barcelona sees García not just as a future prospect, but as a player who can contribute immediately. A move to FC Barcelona would represent a significant step up for García, offering him the chance to compete at the highest level of club football, including the UEFA Champions League, and further advance his career. The potential transfer would also underscore Barcelona's strategy of investing in young, talented Spanish players.