Marc-André ter Stegen is going through one of the most uncertain periods since his arrival at FC Barcelona more than a decade ago. The German goalkeeper has been an essential pillar of the team, but his future no longer seems as clear as in previous seasons. After overcoming a complicated injury, the German has returned to the first team's dynamics, although with new challenges ahead.
Wojciech Szczesny's strong performance during his absence and the addition of Joan García have changed the outlook in goal. Although Ter Stegen has expressed his desire to stay, the current context forces the club and the player himself to consider different scenarios ahead of this summer transfer window.
A new Premier League team wants him
Although at one point Manchester City was mentioned as a possible offeror, Ederson's continuity has cooled any move in that direction. Instead, Chelsea has gained momentum as the club most willing to secure the goalkeeper's services. After Kepa Arrizabalaga's transfer to Arsenal, the Londoners are looking for a reliable and experienced figure to compete for the position with Robert Sánchez.
In this context, Ter Stegen fits because of his profile and track record. From London, they view his possible arrival favorably, and the fact that Barça is open to facilitating his departure, without major compensation, makes the operation more feasible. He would also join Marc Guiu, recently signed by the English club.
He doesn't rule out leaving
Despite his initial intention to stay at Barça, Ter Stegen knows that to secure his presence at the World Cup, he needs minutes and consistency. If he sees his starting role compromised with the arrival of competition and without an assured role from Flick, the goalkeeper could seriously consider a change of team. The German understands that he has reached a stage in his career where he can't afford intermittent seasons.
That's why he has become open to evaluating offers that guarantee him a more stable role. His goal remains to compete at the highest level, and if that's not possible at Barça, he'll look for a new challenge.
For the Catalan club, Ter Stegen's departure would be a difficult but not unthinkable decision. With a squad looking to get younger and adapt to the limits of financial Fair Play, freeing up a spot like the German goalkeeper's would help balance the books and facilitate other moves. The sporting management hasn't actively put the player on the market, but if an offer arrives that benefits both parties, the door isn't completely closed.