Marc-Andre ter Stegen is on the verge of completing his move to AFC Ajax after finally reaching an agreement with FC Barcelona over the remaining issues that had delayed his departure.
Although the German goalkeeper trained under Hansi Flick on Friday, everything now points to him missing Barcelona’s pre-season training camp in England.
Advertisement
The squad is scheduled to travel on Monday to St. George’s Park, where they will spend the next phase of their preparations alongside a number of Barça Atlètic and youth players filling in for those still absent after the World Cup.
Situation unlocked
Ter Stegen, who remains under contract with Barcelona until June 2028, accepted the idea of joining Ajax on loan several weeks ago.
However, negotiations between the three parties stalled over tax-related matters that the goalkeeper wanted resolved before approving the move.
Loan departure close. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
As previously reported, Barcelona presented an improved proposal, which Ter Stegen has now accepted after consulting his legal advisors. The breakthrough has paved the way for the transfer to move into its final phase.
Advertisement
Amsterdam trip expected next week
While the transfer is not expected to be officially announced over the weekend due to the remaining paperwork, the expectation is that it will be completed early next week.
Now, according to SPORT, Ter Stegen is planning to travel to Amsterdam on Monday to undergo his medical examination and begin work under Ajax head coach Michel.
If that schedule is maintained, he will not travel with Barcelona for their pre-season camp in England.
End of an uncertain chapter
Still Barcelona’s first-team captain, Ter Stegen lost his place as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper last season after Joan García established himself as Hansi Flick’s undisputed number one.
Advertisement
His relationship with the club became strained during the campaign, with disagreements over the recovery timeline for a back injury even leading to him temporarily losing the captain’s armband before club president Joan Laporta helped calm the situation.
A fresh start for Ter Stegen. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
After recovering from injury, Ter Stegen made a solitary appearance in the Copa del Rey against Guadalajara before accepting a loan move to Girona in search of regular football.
Michel pushed for a reunion
His spell at Girona was cut short by another injury, as a torn hamstring in his left leg required surgery after only two appearances.
Advertisement
Despite the limited playing time, Ter Stegen impressed Michel, who has since requested his signing at Ajax.
Barcelona and the Dutch club have already reached an agreement under which the Catalan side will continue to pay more than 80% of the goalkeeper’s salary during the loan.
Completing the deal early next week is also important for Ajax, as it would allow Ter Stegen to be registered in time for the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.