Man United 'make approach' for Andre Onana replacement in Arsenal transfer blow

Latest Manchester United transfer news with an update on goalkeeper Joan Garcia

Manchester United have made an approach for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, according to the latest reports.

The 23-year-old has been the standout performer for the La Liga side this season, conceding just 41 goals in 32 matches, and his fine performances have attracted interest from across Europe.

Last year, Arsenal saw a bid rejected for Garcia and they are expected to come back in for the Spaniard ahead of the summer transfer window. Real Madrid are also said to be an option for the 'keeper.

However, United are taking 'further steps' to attempt to win the race for Garcia's signature. According to Cope, United became the latest club to contact Garcia's entourage on Sunday to 'make him an offer'.

Andre Onana's mixed performances have seen Ruben Amorim's side look for alternatives in the market. Onana was dropped for Altay Bayindir earlier this month but has since regained his place in the team.

Garcia has a £21.3m release clause which will rise to £25.6m for the last 15 days of the summer window. It's also expected to increase if he were to make his debut for Spain in June.

Espanyol sporting director Fran Garagarza has confirmed that Garcia could leave the club this summer. As relayed by Sport, he said: "There's a lot of noise, but nothing is happening.

"There's no firm movement like there was in the previous [summer] window. There may be movements because he's a top-level goalkeeper, but we're calm, and most importantly, the kid is very calm."

Espanyol head coach Manolo Gonzalez, meanwhile, dropped a major hint on Garcia's future ahead of their trip to Valencia on Tuesday. "I can't guarantee that he'll stay at Espanyol next season," Gonzalez said. "You’re all seeing the level he’s at, which is what it is."

Garcia, who has three years left on his contract, said in February that he would like to leave Espanyol in the "best way" as he eyes a summer departure. "At the moment I'm not thinking about that [future], but you never know. If it happens, let it happen in the best way," he told Estadio Deportivo.

‘If in the end it turns out that I have to leave, how can I not say goodbye well? Espanyol are the club that has given me everything. If I go through the back door, it wouldn’t go well."

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