AC Milan cool down interest in exit-linked Barcelona heavyweight – report | OneFootball

In a swift and unexpected twist, AC Milan have distanced themselves from any potential move for Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen, just one day after rumours linked the German goalkeeper with a move to San Siro, reports SPORT.

With Barcelona closing in on the signing of young Spanish shot-stopper Joan Garcia, the club’s long-serving No. 1 has suddenly found his future clouded in uncertainty.

Ter Stegen, who has been a loyal servant to Barça since 2014, now finds himself edged out of the picture, especially given the club’s need to lower the wage bill and restructure the squad under new priorities.

Milan move seems unlikely

Ter Stegen’s name surfaced as a possible option for AC Milan following reports that current Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan is closing in on a move to Chelsea.

However, it appears that Milan have turned their focus elsewhere. Reports from Italy indicate that the German international is not among Milan’s top targets, with the club actively negotiating for Mile Svilar of AS Roma instead.

Milan are currently exploring domestic market options and have made no contact with Ter Stegen or Barcelona.

High wages remain a barrier

AC Milan do not want Ter Stegen. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

One of the biggest stumbling blocks in any potential Ter Stegen transfer is his high salary, a legacy of his importance at Barcelona and the multiple contract extensions he has signed over the years.

Although Milan are aware he may officially be on the market soon, they are unlikely to pursue the move unless economic conditions drastically change, such as a contract termination or a dramatic wage cut.

As things stand, the German’s situation is in limbo. Sources close to the player suggest that he is frustrated with the current scenario and not open to discussing an exit, at least not immediately.

Outside of Italy, there are tentative signs of interest from the Premier League. Clubs like Arsenal and Newcastle United are reportedly looking for goalkeeping options, and Manchester United’s stance remains undefined.

However, none of these sides have made a concrete approach as of now.

With Garcia arriving and Milan out of the picture for now, Ter Stegen’s options are narrowing, and unless something gives, either financially or in his mindset, this saga could drag deeper into the transfer window.