Barcelona's goal will undergo a deep change in this summer transfer window. Although Ter Stegen has been a reference point over the past decade, Flick's arrival and Deco's bet on Joan García have ushered in a new scenario. It's no wonder: the young Espanyol goalkeeper, considered one of the greatest prospects in Spanish soccer, is very close to wearing the blaugrana jersey.
His signing, which would cost about €25 million, responds to a strategy of rejuvenation and long-term projection. In that context, Ter Stegen's continuity is not guaranteed. The German goalkeeper wants to feel like a protagonist at this stage of his career at 33 years old, and if he loses his starting role, he could look for new horizons sooner than expected.
Alternatives in the market
In this uncertain scenario, several doors have opened for Ter Stegen. Saudi Arabia has been courting the goalkeeper for some time with financial offers far superior to what any European club could offer. However, his priority is still to keep competing at the highest level, and Türkiye has emerged as an attractive destination: both Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe have already shown interest.
Both clubs are looking to strengthen their goal with an experienced and renowned profile at the elite level. In addition, they play in European competitions and offer the possibility to keep a high competitive level. If Joan García arrives at Barça intending to be the starter, it wouldn't be surprising for Ter Stegen to see one of these projects as an escape route.
A farewell that is not final
For now, the German goalkeeper hasn't requested to leave the club, but he has made it clear that he wants to feel important. The final decision will depend on the role he's offered and Flick's plan for him. If he perceives that he'll be relegated to a secondary role, he could take the initiative and step aside in search of playing time and sporting stability.
From the club, both Flick and Deco value his leadership, but they don't rule out a departure if the right conditions are met. The goalkeeper's high salary and the need to balance the books also play a role in this story. The situation is still being analyzed in the offices, but the outcome could arrive sooner rather than later if Joan García lands at Camp Nou.