Marc-André ter Stegen has travelled with FC Barcelona to Birmingham for pre-season training despite being on the verge of a loan move to Ajax Amsterdam. The 34-year-old Germany international goalkeeper is expected to finalise the temporary switch in the coming days, though minor complications remain.
According to reports, an agreement between Barcelona and Ajax is in place, but outstanding tax issues relating to ter Stegen’s salary are currently delaying the completion of the deal. The logistical hurdle has postponed his planned medical examination, initially scheduled for Monday in Amsterdam.
Ajax’s newly appointed coach, Michel, publicly acknowledged the ongoing transfer, having previously worked with ter Stegen during their time together at Girona. “Everyone knows what's going on,” Michel stated, adding, “Let's hope he can help us and soon we can talk about it.” This suggests a strong desire from the Dutch club to secure the experienced goalkeeper’s services.
Ter Stegen joined Barcelona from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2014 and has established himself as a key player for the Catalan giants, winning numerous La Liga titles and a Champions League trophy. However, with the arrival of other goalkeeping options, Barcelona have seemingly sanctioned a loan move to provide ter Stegen with regular first-team football.
Barcelona’s pre-season squad also includes recent signing Karim Adeyemi, the former Borussia Dortmund winger who completed his transfer on Friday. Hansi Flick’s team will use the Birmingham training camp to prepare for the upcoming season, with Adeyemi expected to integrate quickly into the squad. Ter Stegen’s potential move to Ajax would provide the Dutch side with a proven and experienced goalkeeper as they aim to challenge for domestic and European honours.
