Barcelona to consider replacing Marc-Andre ter Stegen this summer – Joan Garcia wanted | OneFootball

Barcelona have had three different goalkeepers this season, and none of them have convinced the club that they are definitively the long-term answer to the position. After Marc-Andre ter Stegen went down with injury in September, Inaki Pena took over as number one, seeing himself replaced by Wojciech Szczesny in January.

Flick has spoken highly of Szczesny and ter Stegen in recent months, but Barcelona have their doubts about them, say Diario AS. Szczesny recently declared he was still undecided about the club’s two-year renewal offer, but the plan is for him to be the back-up next season, but the number one spot is a major point of debate internally.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future in doubt at Barcelona

The same outlet go on to say that doubts exist about ter Stegen’s level. Following three surgeries in four years on his right knee, ter Stegen’s fitness has been an issue in recent seasons, and his form has declined from being one of the best in the world. The German goalkeeper has had an approach from Saudi Arabia of late, but intends to continue in Barcelona, where he has a contract until 2028.

What Barcelona do not know, is how he would respond should the club go after a new goalkeeper that could challenge his starting place. Ter Stegen is club captain, but at the age of 33, probably still feels he has some years left at the top level.

Barcelona keen on Joan Garcia crossing the divide

Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Bournemouth, Bayer Leverkusen, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are amongst the list of clubs interested in Joan Garcia, as are Barcelona. The Espanyol goalkeeper has a €25m release clause (with a €5m rise if he is called up by Spain), and is set to move on this summer.

Image via Cordon Press

The Blaugrana would like to sign him, but acknowledge that both the release clause (Espanyol will not negotiate with their city rivals) and the morbo between the two sides make a move difficult.

Money to be decisive for Barcelona?

Perhaps the defining factor will be money. It is not yet clear if Barcelona can register Garcia, which would require €25m at least up front, rather than in instalments. In addition, it could become something of a headache financially (as well as in the dressing room) if ter Stegen stays to fight for his place on high wages. That said, Garcia is a unique opportunity at his price point.