Joan Garcia's release clause is set to rise from €25m to €30m on 16 January, making it more challenging for Arsenal to secure their long-term goalkeeping target.

Espanyol are implementing this increase during the final 15 days of the winter transfer window to deter late bids from interested clubs, such as Arsenal, which would leave them with little time to find a replacement.

Garcia, currently under contract with Espanyol until the summer of 2028, has been a key player for his club, stepping in for an injured Fernando Pacheco in March 2024 and solidifying his position as the first-choice goalkeeper. His impressive performances have drawn attention from several top clubs, with Arsenal being one of the most keen to secure his services.

Arsenal's summer pursuit of Garcia was one of the most intense transfer sagas of the window, as the Gunners made multiple bids to bring the Espanyol goalkeeper to North London.

Despite their best efforts, however, Arsenal fell short of securing Garcia, as Espanyol refused to budge on his €25m release clause. The Gunners identified Garcia as a priority signing, particularly following the departure of Aaron Ramsdale to Southampton.

According to reports, Arsenal's interest became more urgent as the window drew to a close, with the Gunners submitting multiple bids, including a highest offer of €25m on deadline day, in an attempt to secure Garcia's signature.

However, Espanyol stood firm, insisting that Garcia's release clause be met in full, leading Arsenal to abandon their pursuit, at least temporarily.

Espanyol have moved swiftly to protect their asset, raising Garcia's release clause and ensuring that any future bids must meet their valuation.

Should Garcia receive a call-up from Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, his clause will rise further to €35m, making a transfer even more costly for interested clubs.

Arsenal's failed attempt to sign Garcia in the summer left them in need of a stopgap solution, resulting in the signing of Neto on loan from Bournemouth.

While the experienced Brazilian offers stability in the short term, at 35 years old, he is not a long-term answer.

Arsenal are still actively seeking a younger goalkeeper to secure the future of the position and are expected to revisit their interest in Garcia when the market reopens.

Despite Arsenal's unsuccessful attempts in the summer, their interest in Garcia remains strong.

The Gunners are expected to keep a close eye on his development, and with Garcia's release clause set to rise in January, the window for Arsenal to strike a deal at a lower price is closing fast.

If the young goalkeeper continues to impress, his value will only increase, making Arsenal's pursuit even more challenging.