Espanyol sporting director Fran Garagarza has expressed his delight after keeping hold of goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer.
The 23-year-old agreed personal terms with Arsenal over a move, but a deal did not materialise before Friday’s transfer deadline.
The Gunners stepped up their interest in the Spaniard after selling Aaron Ramsdale, but they failed to meet Espanyol’s demands.
Arsenal made an offer of £17 million, but the La Liga outfit made it clear they would not sell Garcia for less than his £25m release clause.
As a result, the Gunners chose to sign Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto on a straight loan.
Garagarza has now said that Espanyol had to work hard to keep a great goalkeeper in Garcia and believes the Spaniard is in the ‘top ten’.
He said via Sport: “There have been movements. We have had to work hard. There have been conversations – situations to work through. Situations to handle.
“We are dealing with a great goalkeeper, but we are also dealing with a great person. His behaviour, his poise, his harmony and his tone of voice – for me, he’s top ten. That’s what I’ll take from him.”
Arsenal could return for Garcia next summer
The Gunners had their sights on landing Garcia to replace Ramsdale, but a transfer did not happen.
Ramsdale made the decision to pursue regular playing time elsewhere, but Arsenal did not receive any suitable bids until Southampton’s proposal on Wednesday night.
With just 48 hours to find a replacement, Arsenal were not in a position to persuade Espanyol to sell Garcia. They could have found a solution with more time to play with.
Neto is a good short-term signing, but the Gunners could return for Garcia next summer.
The young shot-stopper has huge potential. He recently made seven saves in a goalless draw against Atletico Madrid.
Garcia is also good with the ball at his feet. Arsenal could start negotiations early next summer so that Espanyol have time to secure a quality replacement.
