Arsenal and Barcelona in danger of being pipped to rising La Liga star's signature by Premier League rival

AS, via Sport Witness, claims Arsenal are stepping up their interest in the 24-year-old, but Bournemouth are also keeping tabs on him. Moreover, Mundo Deportivo states the Gunners are leading the race for his services and 'has negotiated' with Mikel Arteta's team, but Barcelona are also targeting the 6ft 3in player.

Despite all that, Sport claim Garcia is unlikely to settle for a backup role and could prioritise a club that will make him first choice. David Raya is Arsenal's number one, and Marc-André ter Stegen is Barcelona's. Therefore, if Chelsea loanee Kepa Arrizabalaga does not join Bournemouth permanently, that could pave the way for a Garcia switch.

Garcia is said to have a €25 million (£21m) release clause, which will rise to €30m (£25.2m) for the last 15 days of the summer transfer window. However, reports suggest he could leave for as little as €15m (£12.6m) in order to balance their books before June 30.

Before transfer bids can take place, Garcia will hope to delay Barcelona's La Liga title party when lowly Espanyol host Hansi Flick's side on Thursday night.