Barcelona will need salary agreement to facilitate club captain’s exit – Report | OneFootball

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s expected departure from FC Barcelona may not be as straightforward as identifying a new club.

It was reported earlier today that the club captain was nearing his exit, with a move to Ajax and a reunion with Michel now appearing advanced.

Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, the biggest obstacle could be finding an agreement over the goalkeeper’s salary.

Ajax have emerged as one of the strongest candidates to sign the German international this summer. The Dutch giants have been monitoring his recovery from the hamstring injury he suffered in January and appear convinced that he could become a key figure in Amsterdam.

However, the financial realities of the deal are far more complicated. Barcelona are open to Ter Stegen’s exit, but Ajax’s preference is reportedly a loan move rather than a permanent transfer.

Ajax’s participation in the Conference League next season has limited their financial flexibility, meaning the Dutch club are unlikely to take on Ter Stegen’s full salary package by themselves.

Financial compromise may be needed

That leaves Barcelona facing a familiar challenge. If the club want to facilitate the departure of one of their highest earners, they may need to accept a salary-sharing arrangement.

From a sporting perspective, the situation appears increasingly clear. Hansi Flick sees Joan Garcia as his first-choice goalkeeper, with Wojciech Szczesny positioned as the primary backup.

In that scenario, Ter Stegen would enter the season without the prominent role he has enjoyed for much of his Barcelona career.

A move to Ajax could therefore offer a solution for all parties. The German would receive regular minutes, Ajax would gain an experienced goalkeeper with elite-level pedigree, and Barcelona would further streamline a squad that is entering a new cycle under Flick.

Current Ajax manager Michel previously worked with Ter Stegen during the goalkeeper’s loan spell at Girona last season, making a reunion an attractive possibility.

The challenge now is financial rather than sporting. Ter Stegen remains under contract until 2028, and his salary reflects his long-standing status as one of Barcelona’s senior figures and club captain.

If Ajax are serious about completing the move, an agreement over wages will likely become the decisive factor. Barcelona appear willing to open the door, but the final details may determine whether Ter Stegen’s next chapter begins in Amsterdam.