New Ajax manager seeks reunion with out-of-favour Barcelona captain – report | OneFootball

According to Mundo Deportivo, AFC Ajax manager Michel Sanchez is keen to reunite with FC Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen as the Dutch club looks to strengthen its goalkeeping department ahead of next season.

Michel was recently named the new manager by Ajax just days after his Girona side were relegated from La Liga.

Alongside sporting director Jordi Cruyff, formerly of Barcelona, the new coach is already identifying transfer targets, and one of his priorities is signing a new goalkeeper.

Michel wants Ter Stegen

And, as per the report, Michel would like Ajax to pursue Ter Stegen, whom he previously convinced to join Girona on loan in January.

Michel wants Ter Stegen at Ajax. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The Spanish coach enjoys a strong relationship with the Barcelona captain and believes he would be an ideal addition to his new project in Amsterdam.

Interestingly, though, Ter Stegen’s fellow Barcelona goalkeeper Inaki Pena, who spent the last season on loan at Elche, has also been mentioned among possible targets for Ajax.

For his part, Ter Stegen is entering the final stages of recovery from a left hamstring injury that restricted him to only a couple of appearance for Girona. The current plan is for him to return to full training in the coming days.

Ter Stegen not part of Flick’s plans

Heading into the summer, it is clear that Ter Stegen is not a part of Barcelona manager Hansi Flick’s plans for the next season.

Ter Stegen has no place in Barcelona’s plans. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Joan Garcia remains the undisputed No. 1 in goal after a remarkable debut season, while Wojciech Szczesny will continue as the second choice, although Barça are open to bringing in an upgrade in that role.

Nonetheless, Ter Stegen does not feature in the Catalans’ plans despite having a contract with the club until 2028.

As such, Barcelona and Ter Stegen remain open to finding a solution that suits all parties this summer. The veteran is willing to consider offers and potentially move abroad in search of regular playing time and a project where he can once again play a leading role.