As reported by SPORT and confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, Marc-Andre ter Stegen is nearing a departure from Barcelona, with the club and Ajax having reached a verbal agreement in principle for a loan move lasting one season.
Both sides have established a financial framework for the deal, and Barcelona is now awaiting the official documentation to finalize the terms and allow the goalkeeper to travel to Amsterdam next week.
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The loan is expected to last for one season with an option to buy, the specifics of which will be finalized once all contracts are signed.
Medical Examination Required
Barcelona regards Ter Stegen’s move to Ajax as nearly finalized, especially after the goalkeeper expressed his approval for the transfer. However, the official announcement will likely be delayed for several days.
Before the deal is officially settled, Ajax has requested that the German international undergo a thorough medical examination in Amsterdam.
Ter Stegen has fully recovered from his previous back issues and the hamstring surgery that limited his appearances last season, and he has been cleared to start the new season.
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Nonetheless, Ajax seeks to perform a complete medical evaluation prior to finalizing the agreement.
Michel’s Influence
While Ter Stegen had multiple offers, Ajax’s determination and the hiring of Michel as head coach played a crucial role in his decision.
The Spanish manager had previously tried to secure Ter Stegen’s services during the January transfer window, bringing him to Girona on loan and rapidly making him the first-choice goalkeeper.
Unfortunately, that stint was cut short due to a muscle injury, which limited his appearances before he missed the rest of the season and Germany’s World Cup campaign.
Michel was instrumental in persuading the goalkeeper to join Ajax. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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The chance to reunite with Michel was a significant factor in Ter Stegen’s decision to select Ajax.
Barcelona to Handle Wages
Under the terms of the agreement, Barcelona will cover a substantial part of Ter Stegen’s salary, as Ajax cannot afford the entirety of his wages while he remains under contract with the Catalan club until 2028.
Barcelona hopes that the 34-year-old will have an impressive season in the Netherlands, helping to rebuild his market value and attracting permanent transfer offers next summer, which could facilitate a definitive move.