Overview

• Barcelona have advanced on formal steps to trigger Garcia’s €25 million release clause and expect to finalise terms with Espanyol imminently.
• The 24-year-old goalkeeper has agreed personal terms on a five-year contract, according to sources close to the negotiations.
• Garcia’s arrival will set up a direct challenge for Marc-André ter Stegen, who has reaffirmed his commitment to remain at Camp Nou.
• Barça intend to maintain depth in goal by offering veteran Wojciech Szczesny a one-year contract extension.
• Garcia chose Barcelona over reported interest from Arsenal, Aston Villa and Newcastle to stay in Catalunya.