Liverpool eye second keeper as they enter the mix for Arsenal-linked Joan Garcia

Despite it appearing only a matter of time before Liverpool complete a deal for Valencia's Giorgi Mamardashvili, the Reds seem to be in the market for yet another goalkeeper this summer.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, the Reds have been closely monitoring Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia, despite speculation of a verbal agreement with Arsenal to become their new number two.

The Georgian is viewed as a long-term replacement for Alisson Becker in 2025, while Garcia could be signed to take the place of current wantaway number two Caoimhin Kelleher.

A replacement for Ramsdale

Garcia, under contract with Espanyol until June 2028, has recently seen his release clause rise to €30 million, adding a further layer of complication to any deal.

Arsenal view Garcia as a replacement for Aaron Ramsdale, whose future in London appears uncertain after losing his starting spot to David Raya at the start of last season.

However, the Gunners are unlikely to complete a move for the 23-year-old Spaniard without first sanctioning a departure for Ramsdale.

Girona also entered the fray last month. Even though the Catalan club have since shifted focus to Olympique de Marseille's Pau Lopez, a return to the negotiating table for Garcia can't be ruled out as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League campaign.

No formal offers

Espanyol, for their part, have denied receiving any formal offers for Garcia. The club insists that they have not had any communication from the goalkeeper’s camp regarding a possible departure.

However, sources close to the player suggest that Espanyol have been aware of his potential exit for some time.

Garcia himself has remained composed amid the speculation, telling reporters after Espanyol's recent 1-0 defeat to Valladolid that he is "very calm" about his future.

He acknowledged, however, that "in football, these things cannot be decided by oneself," hinting at the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his situation.

Garcia kept 12 clean sheets in 21 appearances in Segunda last year as the side earned promotion via the play-offs.

The goalkeeper was also in the Spain squad that won gold at the Paris Olympics in the summer, but failed to make an appearance.

As one of Espanyol’s key assets, his departure could complicate the club's efforts to avoid relegation from La Liga.