Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s expected departure from Barcelona has run into difficulty, with Ajax reportedly frustrated at how long it is taking to get the transfer over the line.

What had looked like a straightforward loan move to Amsterdam is now clouded by uncertainty, and there is even a possibility, however remote, that the whole thing falls apart.

Ajax growing impatient

According to Mundo Deportivo, the sticking point lies with a series of tax matters on Barcelona’s side that still need clearing up before the deal can be signed off.

That process has taken longer than anticipated, and the Dutch club are said to be unhappy with the wait.

From Ajax’s perspective, the frustration stems from a belief that everything had already been settled.

Officials in Amsterdam are reportedly puzzled as to why the paperwork remains unresolved, and there is a growing sense of irritation that a deal they considered done is still hanging in the balance.

So strong is that frustration that Ajax have privately signalled the agreement could be scrapped altogether unless the outstanding problems are dealt with promptly.

There is, however, still reason for optimism. According to the same report, ter Stegen is due at the club’s training complex to undergo a medical alongside the rest of the players returning for the start of pre-season, suggesting both parties still expect the move to happen.

Why the move matters for Barcelona

Offloading ter Stegen is a key piece of Barcelona’s summer puzzle. The 34-year-old slipped down the goalkeeping order after Joan Garcia’s emergence, and his sizeable wages are something the club are eager to move off their books.

The switch, championed by sporting director Jordi Cruyff and new Ajax boss Michel, who previously wanted the German at Girona, would hand ter Stegen the regular football he needs after a spell dogged by injury.

At the same time, this would ease Barcelona’s squad and salary pressures, though the move is not entirely beneficial as the Catalans would still pay a large part of the salary.

The hope in Catalonia will be to untangle the tax and regulatory issues without delay. With Ajax’s patience wearing thin, though, Barcelona may need to act fast.