Man Utd race to beat Arsenal to transfer for Arteta favourite

Suraj Radia

7 Mar 2025 00:00 CST
3 min read

Manchester United’s efforts to replace Andre Onana could lead them into a transfer tug of war with Arsenal for one of Mikel Arteta’s top transfer targets.

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United could be on the lookout for a new goalkeeper this summer after an error-filled run of form for Onana has seemingly led Ruben Amorim to question the 28-year-old’s credibility as the team’s long-term number one.

But with United operating under tight constraints while also having a desire to strengthen in multiple areas, primarily in attack, the club explore cheaper options who can compete with Onana for a starting place.

Such parameters have led United to consider Joan Garcia as an option according to Fichajes, with the Espanyol shotstopper having a release clause of €30 million in his contract.

The 23-year-old is enjoying a breakout campaign for Espanyol, having made more saves than any other goalkeeper in La Liga this season, leading to interest from the likes of Barcelona and Manchester City.

However, Arsenal are understood to be pushing the hardest for Garcia after trying to sign him last summer, with Arteta desperate to make up for lost time and beat rivals to the Spaniard’s signature.

© IMAGO - Joan Garcia has been integral for Espanyol this season.

United line up younger alternative to Onana after downturn in form

Amorim has not made a definitive decision over the future of his goalkeeping position and Onana will be given the rest of this season to prove his worth despite his mistakes.

The Cameroonian has kept just one clean sheet in his last 18 appearances, making a number of high-profile mistakes along the way that have cost United some crucial results.

Current ETV

Joan García

Espanyol

Joan García

Espanyol

ETV Range

€11.8M - €14.5M

United are likely to target younger options who can eventually oust Onana’s role, with the club also considering a last-ditch attempt to hijack Newcastle’s transfer for Burnley keeper James Trafford.

The scale of United’s summer business will depend on outgoings, with offers set to be considered for a number of players such as Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund as well as the loaned-out trio of Marcus Rashford, Antony and Tyrell Malacia.