Barcelona reassure Eric Garcia on his transfer status

Yesterday we reported that Ferran Torres is determined to stay at Barcelona, and today Mundo Deportivo are reporting that centre-back Eric Garcia has been given a vote of confidence by Xavi, with the Barca manager insisting he’s not for sale barring an extraordinary offer that the club simply could not refuse.

The 22-year-old Spanish defender has made 50 appearances for Barca since returning to the club from Manchester City back in 2021, but his name has appeared in numerous transfer rumours over the last few weeks, with everyone aware that Barca will need to facilitate some sales if they hope to further reinforce the team.

The uncertainty around his future convinced the defender to seek out Xavi for some reassurance, wanting clarity on his future as the team prepares for the new La Liga season.

Xavi offered him the reassurance he was looking for, stating that he would not be sold unless an extraordinary offer was received.

Transfer Rumours fuelled by Inigo Matinez signing

Over the summer Barca agreed to a contract with Inigo Martinez, the veteran Spanish defender whose contract with Athletic Bilbao ran out in June.

Martinez brings a wealth of experience to the defence and seemingly has vaulted ahead of Garcia in the pecking order.

Garcia now finds himself as the team’s 5th CB after Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé and Martinez.

Although considering the issues at RB, Xavi may opt to play Koundé there if no reinforcements are made in the position. Sergino Dest started the game against Arsenal but struggled throughout, and it’s widely believed that he’s one of the players being shopped by the Catalan club alongside Clement Lenglet.

Some have wondered whether Garcia’s best position would be in front of the back four as a pivot considering he’s good with the ball at his feet and recovery is one of his greatest strengths.

He did make 7 appearances as a defensive midfielder last year, and arguably performed better than when asked to play centre-back. Maybe that’s something Xavi will experiment with over the final games of the preseason.