Barça Could Enter the Transfer Market This Summer in Search of a New Goalkeeper. Although it isn't an absolute priority, the situation is particularly concerning to Deco. Marc-André ter Stegen's continuity as the undisputed goalkeeper is uncertain due to his knee problems.
The goalkeeper has suffered two knee injuries in recent years, and although he remains one of the pillars, doubts are beginning to arise within the club about how he will return. Ter Stegen is working hard to return to the highest level, but knee injuries always generate uncertainty, especially for a goalkeeper whose agility and reflexes are key.
Barça Fear These Injuries Could Affect His Long-Term Performance, reducing his ability to maintain elite level. Although they trust his professionalism and recovery ability, the club doesn't want to be left without alternatives in such a critical position. Therefore, Deco is already exploring the market in case a move in the goalkeeping position becomes necessary.
Diogo Costa, the Option That Most Appeals to Deco
The name that attracts him the most is Diogo Costa, current goalkeeper of Porto and one of the most established goalkeepers in European football. However, the operation would be complicated due to the high price that Porto demands for his transfer.
Diogo Costa is Valued at About 75 Million, a high figure for Barça's financial possibilities and considering he is a goalkeeper. Although Deco believes Costa would be the ideal long-term replacement for Ter Stegen, financial limitations make this option currently unfeasible.
The Low-Cost Option, Increasingly Close to Joining Mikel Arteta
Given the difficulty of signing Diogo Costa, Barça is closely following Joan García, Espanyol's goalkeeper. The young goalkeeper is having a spectacular season in La Liga, establishing himself as one of the great revelations in goalkeeping.
His release clause, set at 30 Million, makes him a much more affordable option. However, the Catalan club isn't alone in this race. According to 'El Nacional.cat', Arsenal is also very interested in Joan García and would be willing to pay his clause this summer.
The possibility of Arsenal getting ahead and closing the deal quickly worries Barça. The London club is looking to strengthen its goalkeeping for the next season and sees Joan García as the perfect candidate. Barça thus faces a key decision, weighing whether to invest in Diogo Costa, go for Joan García now, or continue relying entirely on Ter Stegen.