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FootballTransfers has learned from sources that the Italy international is seen as long-term support for David Raya and could even join the club on a free transfer.
Meret is out of contract with Napoli at the end of the season, meaning Arsenal can open talks with the 27-year-old during January if he has not agreed a new deal with Antonio Conte’s Serie A high fliers by that stage.
There is, however, the option of another year with the Italian side in his current agreement.
Garcia had been Mikel Arteta’s favoured option to act as a backup option to David Raya at the Emirates following the summer departure of Aaron Ramsdale to Bournemouth.
Late in the transfer window, Arsenal enquired to the Spanish side over a deal for the 23-year-old but were told that they would have to meet the player’s €30 million (£25.2m) release clause to complete the move.
Although this course of action was considered, the Gunners pulled out of the move and have been seeking for alternative options since.
Personal terms had already been agreed with Garcia, but having been quoted €30m to sign him, Arsenal moved instead to secure Neto on loan.
Perhaps the key question in the deal is: would Meret be willing to join Arsenal knowing he would likely play second fiddle to current first-choice goalkeeper David Raya? With his strong performances this season, it is currently unclear whether he would accept a backup role or prefer to continue as a starter elsewhere.
Arsenal remain interested in Joao Garcia but are unwilling to budge from their original offer. This means Espanyol will need to lower their transfer fee expectations, with sources indicating to FootballTransfers that Garcia is still keen on making the move to the Emirates.
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