Barcelona veteran superstar rejected loan move to West Ham United – report | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s omission from the starting XI in the Copa del Rey match against Racing Santander was a clear statement of intent from Hansi Flick, making it evident that he would not have a significant role in the second part of the season at Barcelona.

The Barça captain had hoped to play in the Copa del Rey in order to gain minutes with a view to being selected for the World Cup, but if he does not play, Julian Nagelsmann has already indicated that he would not be called up.

For this reason, barring a change of course, Girona are set to secure his loan until the end of the season, providing him with the chance he needs to gain regular game-time in order to play his first World Cup as a starter.

Ter Stegen rejected West Ham

As has already been reported, Girona are finalising arrangements for Ter Stegen’s loan and that Barcelona will cover 90% of the goalkeeper’s salary to facilitate his departure.

Now, according to talkSPORT (h/t Mundo Deportivo), West Ham United also attempted to secure Ter Stegen on loan during this winter transfer window.

Ter Stegen rejected West Ham approach. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The London club were keen to sign him due to the poor performances shown by their goalkeepers, Alphonse Areola and Mads Hermansen, since the start of the season.

However, the German goalkeeper rejected the offer, prioritising his family situation and the possibility of remaining close to Barcelona in order to continue seeing his two children.

While awaiting confirmation of his loan move to Girona, Flick spoke about Ter Stegen’s situation earlier today during the press conference, saying:

“It’s his decision and what he wants for the future. Of course, we’ve talked in recent days and weeks, but this is Deco’s job and we have to prepare for tomorrow’s game.

“Meanwhile, Marc is a Barça player, captain, and has been very important for the last 10 years, but we will respect his decision and whatever he wants.”