Three potential destinations for Barcelona heavyweight as summer exit looms | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen started in goal for Germany last night and was sensational in their team’s UEFA Nations League semifinal against Portugal. The team may well have lost, but the player made a statement with four saves from inside the box and three high claims.

With Barcelona closing in on Joan Garcia and the Spaniard likely to start next season as their first-choice goalkeeper, Ter Stegen’s future does not look very bright in Catalonia.

The player has repeatedly insisted that he will stay at the club no matter what, but with the FIFA World Cup approaching, it may well be in his best interest to leave the club immediately so as to stay in the limelight.

Barça Universal brings you three potential destinations Ter Stegen can find himself in if he opts to leave the club.

Saudi Arabia

As it stands, the only concrete links Ter Stegen has are with clubs in Saudi Arabia, and his injury streak and relatively poor run of form in recent times is the greatest reason why.

With a transfer to the Middle East-based league becoming more common in recent years, the player may not be as opposed to it as he would have been a couple of years ago. After all, the wages offered in Saudi Arabia are unlike anywhere else.

At the same time, however, it will likely be Ter Stegen’s primary objective to stay in Europe at the highest level at least until the 2026 World Cup where he plans to be a starter for Germany. Moving to Saudi may not work out well on that front.

Manchester United

Manchester United have been struggling to get back onto their feet in recent seasons and find themselves in a soup in multiple departments. Their goalkeeper, Andre Onana, has particularly not earned any favours with his level.

Ter Stegen could leave Barcelona this summer. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

The player was disastrous once more in the recent UEFA Europa League final and that may well open the door for the club to look for a more seasoned option at the back. Ter Stegen would fit in well.

The German star’s composure on the ball and relatively decent shot-stopping might have the Red Devils interested in his transfer if he decides to leave the club. Moreover, it would also keep him in Europe, at least for the next season.

With Barcelona also interested in Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, it remains to be seen if something can be worked out to benefit both clubs should they confirm their interest in each other’s players.

AC Milan

AC Milan’s Mike Maignan played a great part at the back for the Italian side last season and finished the campaign with several clubs interested in his signing.

With the player finishing on 12 clean sheets, an average of 2.7 saves per game and 71% shots saved, he is strongly linked with a possible move to Chelsea who are pushing for a move.

Should the Rossoneri lose out on their starting goalkeeper, Ter Stegen may fit into their plans at the right time – with the team looking for proven, experienced individuals, as witnessed by their pursuit of Luka Modric.

Ter Stegen may well be 33 years of age, but his experience and the fact that goalkeepers play well into their thirties work out well in his favour.

A move to Italy would not only keep him active in Europe but put him out in a competitive league under an experienced coach.