Fulham have officially announced the signing of Spanish striker Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid, marking a reunion between the player and his former coach, Alvaro Arbeloa. The 22-year-old forward is coming off his most successful campaign to date, having netted eight goals for the Spanish giants last season, including six in La Liga and a notable hat-trick against Real Betis in January.
The deal ties Garcia to the Premier League side until 2031, with Fulham holding an additional one-year extension option. According to reports from Spanish media, the transfer is valued at approximately 40 million euros ($46 million), and Real Madrid have reportedly secured a 30% sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
This move follows Fulham’s appointment of Arbeloa as head coach earlier this summer. Arbeloa, who previously managed within Madrid’s youth system, assumed the role after the January dismissal of Xabi Alonso. He is now overseeing a significant transition at the west London club, which also saw the arrival of 21-year-old attacking midfielder Cesar Palacios, who recently broke into the Real first team under Arbeloa’s guidance.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are undergoing a major squad overhaul following two consecutive seasons without a major trophy. The club has appointed veteran Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho to succeed Arbeloa as they look to rebuild their competitive standing.
Garcia has signed a contract with Fulham until 2031, with the club holding an option to extend the deal by a further year.
