According to a recent report by Sport, Barcelona have already begun talks to land Manchester City centre-back Eric Garcia after keeping tabs on his progress in the Premier League over the past ten months. The same source has also claimed that the Catalans are eager to reunite with their former player, but the discussions between the two clubs are still ‘in the initial phase’ ahead of the summer transfer window.
Garcia’s Impressive Form For Man City This Season
Garcia has enjoyed a fruitful campaign at the Etihad Stadium after producing a few solid performances at the heart of Pep Guardiola’s defence. He was at his best against Liverpool in midweek and did well to keep Roberto Firmino quiet during that game.
The Spanish defender has made 13 senior appearances for Man City this term, picking up one assist in the process across all fronts. More importantly, he has averaged 0.6 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 2.7 clearances on average per game in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League this season. He also boasts a pass success rate of 92.7% in league football which makes him an ideal fit for Barca’s brand of possession-based football at the Nou Camp (stats via whoscored).
The 19-year-old has represented Spain at various youth levels and is currently an important member of his country’s Under-21 side having featured in five matches for them so far. However, Garcia is waiting to earn his first senior cap for Luis Enrique’s team at the international stage.
What Will The Spanish Defensive Ace Bring To The Nou Camp?
Garcia has taken great strides towards improving his overall game during their campaign. He is primarily a centre-back but can also fill in as a right-back if needed. Garcia has done well to break out as a first-team starter at the Etihad and is gradually becoming an important member of Pep Guardiola’s squad. The Spanish whizkid can read the danger quickly and is not afraid to put his body on the line when attempting to block a goal-bound shot from the opposition. He can command his penalty area and can also pull off some crucial last-gasp clearances for his team.
Recruiting a centre-back of Garcia’s potential could prove to be a clever piece of business for the Catalan giants as they look to rebuild their squad this summer in search of more trophies in the coming seasons. The Spanish youngster will not only add some bite and steel to the Barca backline but also enhance the overall quality of their squad.
Furthermore, he will offer more competition for the likes of Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti and Jean-Clair Todibo at Catalonia next season. All in all, it makes sense for the La Liga giants to orchestrate a move to seal a return for their former asset before the start of the new campaign.
