‘Here we go’ – Fabrizio Romano confirms £21m deal for Newcastle United target
Newcastle United’s hopes of signing Espanyol’s highly-rated goalkeeper Joan Garcia appear to be over, with reports suggesting the 24-year-old is on the verge of completing a high-profile switch to Barcelona.
The Magpies had been monitoring Garcia closely over the past few months as part of their search for a long-term solution in goal. Garcia, who had a breakout season at Espanyol, was one of the few standout performers for the Catalan side, despite their disappointing 14th-place finish in La Liga. His consistent shot-stopping, composure under pressure, and excellent distribution had attracted attention from several top clubs across Europe, including Newcastle.
Newcastle were fully aware of the £21 million (€25m) release clause embedded in Garcia’s contract, yet despite their interest, they never followed up with a formal bid. That hesitation has now allowed Spanish giants Barcelona to swoop in. According to renowned Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona have moved quickly to seal the deal.
Romano tweeted on social media: “Joan Garcia to Barcelona, here we go! Documents are now in place with Spanish GK. Release clause to be paid in the next days, could happen next week but all contracts are now ready. Joan Garcia will sign a five-year deal at Barca, all set.”
The move would see Garcia cross the city divide in Catalonia, joining Espanyol’s historic rivals in what could be a major turning point in his career. He is set to become Barcelona’s first signing of the summer transfer window, as they look to bolster their goalkeeping department following the departure of backup keeper Inaki Pena.
Newcastle’s Goalkeeping Dilemma Continues
With Garcia no longer a viable option, Newcastle have now shifted their focus back to their top goalkeeping target — Burnley’s James Trafford. The 21-year-old England U21 international was close to joining the Magpies last summer, with personal terms reportedly agreed. However, a deal failed to materialize at the time.
Newcastle’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper has been made more urgent due to uncertainties surrounding their current goalkeeping options and the club’s broader recruitment plans. The arrival of Greek international Odysseas Vlachodimos had initially complicated matters and briefly stalled their goalkeeping search. In addition, financial concerns related to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) have forced the club to be more strategic with their spending.
Despite renewed interest in Trafford, a major stumbling block remains — Burnley’s valuation. The Clarets are demanding a hefty £40 million fee for the young shot-stopper, a price Newcastle consider excessive. Club officials have opened talks with Burnley but are reluctant to be drawn into a bidding war or pay over the odds.
James Trafford Speaks Out on Transfer Hopes
Meanwhile, Trafford himself has not shied away from discussing his desire to take the next step in his career. Reflecting on last summer’s failed move, Trafford revealed his disappointment and his continued ambition to play at a higher level.
“Last summer, I wanted to move because the club I was close to going to was a good fit for me at the time,” he said. “It was brilliant for me, I really believed in it and I really wanted the move.
“It wasn’t that I didn’t want to play in the Championship — I had no shame or ego about that. You only prove you’re better than something by performing and showing people you’re capable. It was just that when the opportunity arises and the situation feels right, you have to take it.”
Trafford added that although the transfer didn’t go through, Burnley’s then-manager Scott Parker was supportive throughout the process, even as the goalkeeper struggled with the emotional toll of seeing a move collapse.
What’s Next for Newcastle?
With Garcia heading to Barcelona and the Trafford deal facing complications, Newcastle’s goalkeeping hunt is at a crucial juncture. The club must decide whether to meet Burnley’s demands, explore alternative options, or hold off until later in the transfer window in hopes of a breakthrough.
For now, the Magpies continue to weigh their options as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of a demanding new season. The failure to land Garcia could be a blow, but the door remains open for a potential breakthrough with Trafford — if both clubs can find common ground.
Would you like a version tailored for a fan blog, club newsletter, or formal sports outlet?