The Ghanaian has become an important player for Barça Atlètic under Juliano Belletti, establishing himself through his defensive reliability, recovery pace and ability to contribute when playing out from the back.
Gariba is also strong in the air and comfortable in physical duels, qualities that have made him one of the more promising defenders in Barcelona's youth system.
His route to the club was unusual. Discovered in Accra, he arrived in Barcelona through the Marcet Foundation and initially developed outside the professional academy structure. When he joined Barcelona in January 2025, administrative obstacles meant he began playing in the lower levels of Catalan football with Codolar.
His performances quickly attracted attention. Scouts from both Barcelona and Real Madrid took an interest, but the Catalan club eventually secured his signature, with Toni Hernández playing an important role in the move.
Gariba started at Juvenil B before earning promotion to Pol Planas' Juvenil A side last season. His development was rewarded this summer when he was invited to train with Hansi Flick's first team.
He had been expected to travel with the senior squad for their pre-season preparations in England, but a virus prevented him from joining the trip. He subsequently returned to work with Belletti's reserve side and has continued to make an impression.
According to Sport, Gariba is contracted to Barcelona until 2028, having signed an agreement covering the remainder of his youth career and two further seasons as a professional. His release clause is reported to stand at €20 million.
That figure has become a point of interest as clubs across Europe assess his potential. Barcelona are aware of the attention he is attracting, but there has reportedly been no recent move from the club to secure an extension.
Gariba is understood to be comfortable in Barcelona and would prefer to continue his development there. Both sides remain open to reaching an agreement, although negotiations have not yet produced a breakthrough.
The defender's progress has strengthened his position within the club, with his recent performances for Barça Atlètic further increasing his profile. His display against Manresa was another indication of his growing influence.
Barcelona have time on their side because of the length of his existing contract, but the interest from elsewhere creates a situation the club will need to manage carefully. A €20 million clause may prove an attractive opportunity for interested teams if Gariba continues to develop at his current rate.