La Liga star prefers move to Tottenham Hotspur despite interest from Arsenal - Reports

Tottenham are ahead of Arsenal in the race for Joan Garcia.
Tottenham are ahead of Arsenal in the race for Joan Garcia.

Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who has attracted interest from North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, prefers a move to the Lilywhites, as per Spanish outlet AS. This comes after a report from journalist Angel Garcia that Spurs have already approached the La Liga side over a possible deal.

Apart from Arsenal and Tottenham, Garcia has reportedly caught the eye of Real Madrid as well. However, the report claims that he is happy at Espanyol for now and is preparing to suit up for Spain in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

Mikel Arteta's side seem to be well-stocked in the position with two solid options, David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale. The Spaniard was signed from Brentford on a £3 million loan deal which is likely to be made permanent this season for £27 million. Thus, Garcia is unlikely to find any game time should both players remain at the Emirates for the upcoming season.

The situation at Spurs is clearer, meanwhile, with the side keen on adding a solid backup option to Guglielmo Vicario. The Italian shot-stopper was impressive for Postecoglou's side after joining from Serie A side Empoli. With current backup Fraser Forster aged 36, a more reliable option behind the 27-year-old could prove useful for the North London side.

Arsenal and Tottenham in race for Italy star impressing at the Euros: Reports

Calafiori has shone at the Euros for Italy.
Calafiori has shone at the Euros for Italy.

Arsenal and Tottenham are set to battle it out in the pursuit of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. According to Italian outlet Tuttosport, the North London sides have already taken steps to sign the 22-year-old.

Spurs have reportedly begun negotiations with Bologna while the Gunners have opened talks with the player's representatives. Having rejected a bid of €25 million from Juventus back in May, the Serie A side are looking for a fee in the range of €50 million for the talented defender.

Calafiori has been impressive for Thiago Motta's Bologna side, who stunned many by securing Champions League qualification. He made 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and setting up five more.

The Italian defender has played all 270 minutes for Italy in their Group B clashes in the Euros. Outside of an own goal against Spain, the 22-year-old has been a calm presence at the back, impressing with his composure on the ball.

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