Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen's future remains up in the air, with the German international set to hold crucial talks with manager Hansi Flick to clarify his role. The resurgence of Wojciech Szczęsny this season and his steady performances, combined with Barça already having four goalkeepers in their squad, have forced the 33-year-old to reassess his position.
Ter Stegen has made clear his desire to stay at Camp Nou, but with Joan García integrated into Barcelona’s youth-focused rebuild, his playing time—and consequently, his 2026 World Cup prospects—hang in the balance.
The Catalan giants aim to resolve the situation promptly, though the final decision rests on whether the goalkeeper will accept a reduced role or seek an exit.
Despite his illustrious career, ter Stegen’s market value has dropped to €12 million, and fitness concerns have deterred potential suitors. His €7 million after-tax annual salary adds another barrier, with clubs like Monaco—who recently explored a move for Manchester United’s André Onana—baulking at the wage demands. Constrained by financial fair play regulations, the Ligue 1 side views ter Stegen as a high-risk investment.
Manchester City and Chelsea have emerged as the most likely destinations. City, yet to renew 31-year-old Ederson’s contract, has reignited interest in the German as a seasoned alternative—recalling their attempts to sign him during Pep Guardiola’s early years at the Etihad. Chelsea, too, is closely monitoring ter Stegen’s situation at Barça and considering a potential transfer.
Other potential landing spots include AC Milan (possibly seeking a replacement for Mike Maignan), Bayer Leverkusen (in need of a reliable shot-stopper), and Saudi Pro League sides, which have a history of recruiting veteran stars. With the summer transfer window approaching, negotiations are expected to heat up.
