Barcelona preparing for goalkeeping transition: Joan García move could signal end of Ter Stegen era

Barcelona make their move for Joan García

Barcelona have set their sights on Espanyol’s 24-year-old goalkeeper Joan García for the upcoming transfer window. However, the deal hinges on a clear condition: the activation of his €25 million release clause.

Espanyol’s firm stance on release clause

Espanyol CEO Mao Ye commented:

“Joan García is still an Espanyol player. We will not negotiate with Barcelona or any other club unless the €25 million release clause is triggered. The contract is valid and we are committed to it.”

This firm stance has limited Barcelona’s room to manoeuvre, though internally the figure is considered reasonable given García’s profile and potential.

Profile of a modern goalkeeper

García played all 38 La Liga matches for Espanyol during the 2024–25 season, conceding 51 goals and keeping eight clean sheets. His performance went beyond consistency—he impressed with his technical attributes: reaction time, positioning on the line, and ball-playing ability. His calmness in build-up, particularly in short-range distribution, makes him a natural fit for Barcelona’s possession-based style.

Long-term vision: Replacing Ter Stegen

According to Sport, Barça’s coaching staff do not see García merely as a squad player but potentially as a long-term successor to Marc-André ter Stegen. Behind this plan lies a bold internal shift.
Hansi Flick’s new goalkeeping demands

Reports from Mundo Deportivo, AS, Bild and Welt suggest that manager Hansi Flick has informed Ter Stegen that he may no longer be first-choice next season. Welt notes Flick’s desire for a more dynamic, reflexive, and distribution-oriented goalkeeper. Bild describes this as a system-driven decision, while AS reports that Ter Stegen is now open to a potential exit. Mundo Deportivo frames the situation as a carefully managed generational transition.

System fit and transitional role

Barcelona, according to Sport’s analysis, view García’s €25 million clause as a long-term investment. Considering his age, skill set, and growth trajectory, the coaching staff see it as a justified cost.

If the move materialises, it will mark more than just a change in personnel. After a long era with Ter Stegen in goal, Barcelona may be entering a new chapter—one in which Joan García becomes the first building block.

Tactical evolution between the posts

Hansi Flick’s approach demands more than traditional shot-stopping. In his setup, the goalkeeper is an active initiator of play, helping to manage pressing traps and facilitate vertical transitions.

To break pressing lines and build through the thirds, the goalkeeper must provide short passing options under pressure. García’s light footwork and assured distribution place him at the heart of this transitional setup.