Ajax remain interested in signing Barcelona outcast but one problem threatens the deal | OneFootball

Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future appears likely to be away from the Camp Nou this summer, as has been the case for a while now.

However, as always, one major obstacle continues to stand in the way of a potential departure for the German shot-stopper.

The German goalkeeper is expected to return to Barcelona following a difficult loan spell at Girona.

He switched across to the other Catalan club in search of regular game time in a bid to earn a spot in Germany’s World Cup squad, but he hardly featured due to injuries. However, the reality awaiting him at Camp Nou is far from ideal.

With Joan Garcia viewed as Barcelona’s long-term solution between the posts and Wojciech Szczesny retaining an important role in the squad, Ter Stegen no longer appears central to the club’s plans.

His departure would also provide Barcelona with significant wage-bill relief at a time when financial flexibility remains a priority.

Ajax are interested in Ter Stegen. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Now, according to SPORT, Ajax have emerged as one of the strongest candidates to sign the German international this summer.

Michel connection fuels Ajax’s interest

A reunion with former Girona manager Michel is proving to be the driving force behind Ajax potentially making an attempt to sign Ter Stegen.

The Spanish coach previously played an important role in convincing Ter Stegen to join Girona and is now reportedly one of the main figures pushing for his arrival in Amsterdam.

Ajax are looking for an experienced goalkeeper capable of leading a new project, and Ter Stegen’s leadership, experience and ability in possession fit perfectly with the club’s traditional football philosophy.

From a sporting perspective, the move makes plenty of sense. Ajax can offer regular football, a prominent role and the opportunity for Ter Stegen to rebuild momentum ahead of the next major international cycle.

Salary remains the biggest hurdle

Ter Stegen’s salary is unaffordable for Ajax. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Despite everything going in favour of this deal, the report makes it clear that the biggest hurdle is the financial effort it would require.

Ter Stegen’s current salary is reportedly far beyond Ajax’s usual wage structure. As things stand, the Dutch club would struggle to absorb a contract of that size.

They will either have to look for outside assistance in the form of Barcelona loaning him out while paying part of his wages, or the player reducing his demands.

That reality could ultimately determine whether the move becomes possible. Barcelona would welcome a solution that removes one of the squad’s highest salaries while helping a respected player find a fresh start elsewhere.

Ter Stegen to Ajax seems like a deal that makes a lot of sense on paper, but until the financial situation is addressed, this transfer saga is bound to drag on with no clear conclusion in sight.