Barcelona is undergoing a full-scale revolution under the management of Joan Laporta and Hansi Flick, and the blaugrana club is looking to lighten its wage bill and make a major impact. One of the main targets is Marc-André ter Stegen, whose future is more uncertain than ever, despite being one of the heavyweights in the culé locker room. The Catalan club believes that the time has come to close his chapter; his salary, one of the highest in the squad, represents an obstacle for Barça's finances.
From the offices, they believe that this is the ideal time to cash in on the German goalkeeper, especially after the arrival of Joan García and the contract renewal of Wojciech Szczęsny. However, Ter Stegen is not willing to make his departure easier; the Monchengladbach goalkeeper doesn't want to leave Camp Nou this summer.
He knows that Joan García is joining Barça as Laporta's chosen bet, but that doesn't intimidate him; on the contrary: he is ready to make things very difficult for him. Although in recent hours Pep Guardiola has entered the scene. Manchester City manager has inquired about Ter Stegen's situation.
Barça wants him out
The German has always been liked by the Catalan coach, who is seeking serious competition for Ederson. At Etihad Stadium, they believe that the current FC Barcelona goalkeeper would fit perfectly into its play style; nevertheless, Guardiola has hit a wall. Ter Stegen is not considering leaving Barça at this time.
He has a contract, he feels important, and he believes he can regain his best form after a difficult year marked by injuries. In addition, his family is settled in Barcelona, and he has no intention of changing his environment unless there is a radical turn. Meanwhile, Laporta is pushing for the deal to be unlocked; the president has already completed the signing of Joan García from Espanyol.
They seek to free up wages
The young goalkeeper is clearly a bet for the future, but also for the present. The sporting management believes that he can take on the starting role as soon as this season. Added to this is the contract renewal of Wojciech Szczęsny, who will remain a blaugrana for two more seasons, being a veteran and reliable goalkeeper profile.
Barça urgently needs to free up wage bill space to register new signings; the possible departure of Ter Stegen would be a significant financial relief. However, the goalkeeper's refusal complicates the plans; from within the club, they assure that they will keep insisting, but without forcing a total break. Meanwhile, Flick is watching closely; he doesn't want a war in the goal, but he is not going to give away minutes either.
If Ter Stegen stays, he will have to show in every training session that he is still the best; Joan García is not arriving as a backup, but as a direct threat. Meanwhile, Szczęsny will be a reliable backup; the future is in Ter Stegen's own hands.