FC Barcelona activated the €25 million release clause of goalkeeper Joan García, pulling the 24-year-old shot-stopper across one of Spanish football’s most bitter divides.

The deal, completed on June 18, 2025, represents the first direct senior transfer from RCD Espanyol to Barcelona in 31 years.

What García brings to Barcelona

During the 2024/25 La Liga season, he led the entire league with 146 saves. He also topped the charts for preventing the highest number of goals. Espanyol were in a dogfight against relegation throughout the campaign, and García’s performances between the posts were a primary reason they survived it.

García signed a six-year contract that runs through June 30, 2031. He wears the number 13 jersey, and his current market value sits at €45 million, nearly double what Barcelona paid to bring him in.

Born on May 4, 2001, García made his Barcelona debut on August 16, 2025, in a 3-0 win over Mallorca.

What this means for Barcelona’s goalkeeping future

García’s early contributions proved significant beyond just a promising debut. He played an important role in Barcelona’s La Liga title victory during the 2025/26 season, cementing his status as a foundational piece.