Barcelona Triggers Release Clause, First Summer Signing Imminent

Espanyol have officially announced that the release clause of goalkeeper Joan García has been officially activated with La Liga, moving Barcelona one step closer to finalizing a cost-effective transfer.

García has drawn attention from virtually all major European clubs following two exceptional seasons with La Liga's struggling side Espanyol. Arsenal's attempt to sign him last summer was unsuccessful, while teams such as Manchester United and Real Madrid have reportedly shown interest this time.

Recognizing the chance to acquire a top-tier goalkeeper at a discounted price this summer, Barcelona pushed ahead of competitors for García's signature and reached an agreement with the 24-year-old shot-stopper.

As the deal approaches completion, Espanyol's ownership group Rastar confirmed through a stock market announcement that La Liga has received the full payment for García's release clause.

"During the evening of June 14, 2025, Espanyol received notification from the Spanish Professional Football League (LALIGA, hereafter referred to as "La Liga") that García submitted to La Liga a unilateral termination fee of €26.3415 million ($30.4 million)," the statement indicated.

"According to La Liga regulations, following La Liga's approval, the player will transfer to the new football club, and Espanyol will receive the player's unilateral termination penalty (the final amount is subject to what is actually received)."

García's forthcoming arrival creates several challenges for Barcelona, who already have strong options in the goalkeeper position. Wojciech Szczęsny performed admirably last season while filling in for Marc-André ter Stegen, who is reportedly now considered dispensable by the club.

Ter Stegen has been frequently connected with a departure, with Barcelona eager to remove his substantial salary if he's no longer going to be the first-choice goalkeeper, but MARCA reports that the German goalkeeper has no desire to consider offers despite interest from Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray.

Having already stated he is "100% committed" to Barcelona during the recent international break, Ter Stegen seems prepared to compete for his position in Catalonia, even though club officials are apparently looking to transfer him as quickly as possible.