Aston Villa appear set to return to the Spanish transfer market this summer, continuing a pattern established since Unai Emery took over at the club. Their recruitment focus on La Liga looks likely to persist, with several players from Spain’s top division reportedly on their radar.
Their newest target is Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who has emerged as one of the most impressive performers in his position during the 2024–25 campaign. Garcia’s outstanding displays have not gone unnoticed, and Aston Villa are now said to be among the clubs considering a move for the 24-year-old.
Garcia’s numbers turn heads across Europe
Garcia has put up some of the best statistics among goalkeepers in La Liga this season. He holds the second-highest save percentage at 73.4% and leads the league with 3.9 saves per 90 minutes. Most notably, he boasts the best goals prevented figure at 8.5—more than double that of the next-best, Sergio Herrera of Osasuna, who sits at 3.6.
Espanyol’s position outside the relegation zone is in large part due to Garcia’s performances, making him a crucial figure in their campaign. Unsurprisingly, his form has drawn attention beyond Spain, with European giants such as Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly monitoring his progress. Newcastle United have also expressed interest recently.
Premier league move likely for Espanyol star
According to a report from Fabrizio Romano via CaughtOffside, Aston Villa have now entered the competition to secure Garcia’s signature. With current first-choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez expected to leave in the upcoming window, Villa are believed to be looking at Garcia as a possible successor. Should he join, the expectation is that he would become their primary option in goal—a factor that could give them an edge over other suitors like Arsenal and the two Spanish heavyweights.
Garcia is currently tied to a €25 million release clause, though that figure could increase to €30 million if he is selected for Spain’s UEFA Nations League squad this summer. Despite the potential rise in cost, a transfer away from Espanyol appears likely. At present, a move to the Premier League seems the most probable outcome for the in-demand goalkeeper.
