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Aston Villa reportedly want to speed up a deal for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, amidst interest from other Premier League clubs, including Manchester United.
United’s goalkeeping department could be subjected to a radical overhaul this summer, with Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir tipped to leave.
Questions remain rife over the future of Onana and Bayindir as a result of their error-strewn performances this season. Onana continues to be linked with a switch to the Saudi Pro League, while a return to the Super Lig has been mooted for Bayindir.
Throw in Tom Heaton’s expected departure and possible retirement, and it’s clear United could be looking at a totally new goalkeeping lineup next season.
Heading into next season, United badly need a safe pair of hands, and Garcia has put himself right in the mix for the job.
A report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that United are ready to step up their pursuit of Garcia as a potential replacement for Onana. Arsenal were thought to be frontrunners to land the Spaniard but it recently emerged the Gunners are having second thoughts about making a move for him due to the increasing number of suitors.
Bournemouth have also been mentioned to be admirers of Garcia.
The Olympic gold medalist has been vital in helping Espanyol beat the drop, keeping seven clean sheets in 32 La Liga appearances.
If United thought they had a clear run at him due to Arsenal’s dithering, then it appears the Red Devils were badly mistaken. According to Spanish news outlet SER, Aston Villa have also set their sights on Garcia ahead of the transfer window.
It’s understood that the Villans are trying to “fast-track” a deal for the 23-year-old shot-stopper.
Villa also “want to meet” Garcia’s release clause, which is worth £21m but rises to £25m by the end of the window.
His contract runs through to June 2028 but it’s looking increasingly likely his time at Espanyol is coming to an end.
Meanwhile, United return to action on Thursday when they face Athletic Club in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final tie.
Featured image Alex Caparros via Getty Images
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