BARCELONA, Spain — Barcelona is signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García , who was once linked to a move to Arsenal, to a six-year contract, the Spanish champion said Wednesday. The 24-year-old García recently finished a stellar first season in La Liga when he led all goalkeepers in saves with an average of almost four a game.

Barcelona says it has signed Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García on a six-year contract. Barcelona says it has activated a release clause of 25 million euros. García was close to a move to Arsenal

Garcia has become the first player to join Barcelona from city rivals Espanyol in 31 years, and just the 15th to ever do so at senior level