Espanyol star speaks out on Arsenal links

Espanyol star Joan García has on Thursday spoken out on the summer speculation linking him with a move to England, with Arsenal.

The name of shot-stopper Joan of course took its place front and centre in the headlines in the lead up to the transfer deadline late last month.

This came after the 23-year-old was identified by the brass at the aforementioned Arsenal as the leading target to replace the outbound Aaron Ramsdale.

In the end, no such transfer was forthcoming for Joan, with Mikel Arteta and co. having opted to bring in Neto from Bournemouth, instead.

As much came after Espanyol’s board refused to lower their demands for their no.1, whose contract in Barcelona contains a release clause set at €30 million.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of the summer speculation surrounding his name was put to Joan himself.

And the talented shot-stopper, fresh off clinching glory at the Olympics with Spain, went on to explain:

“I was pretty isolated throughout the transfer window. I was at the Games and when I arrived the League was already starting. The last few days were more intense, but I was very isolated, focusing on what I needed, which was the pitch. I managed not to get distracted. Everything comes to me, but I have to be calm and keep my mind where it should be.”

Conor Laird | GSFN

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