Barcelona captain yet to receive formal offers to leave ahead of January window | OneFootball

Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen is in the final phase of recovery from his back surgery and the plan is for him to receive medical clearance this week, potentially before the La Liga fixture on Saturday against Osasuna.

Despite his imminent return, the captain will find it difficult to secure playing time, as Hansi Flick is clear that his first-choice goalkeeper is Joan Garcia.

This situation leaves the German’s future at the club uncertain, particularly if Ter Stegen wishes to earn a place in the squad for the World Cup.

Ter Stegen exit not ruled out, but no formal offers yet

Now, according to BILD (h/t Mundo Deportivo), a winter transfer for Ter Stegen is not ruled out. It would be a way for the goalkeeper to gain minutes and match rhythm to arrive at the World Cup in optimal condition.

According to the same outlet, Turkish clubs have shown interest in signing the Barcelona goalkeeper, although no formal offers have been made so far.

Will Ter Stegen stay or leave?. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The report also highlights that Ter Stegen’s personal circumstances play an important role in any decision about his future. The goalkeeper shares custody of his two children after his separation and lives close to his ex-wife to facilitate family life.

A move in January would therefore pose a challenge, given that it might require a significant relocation for him.

It is worth remembering that Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, recently addressed Ter Stegen’s situation.

He left open the possibility that the German could remain as the third-choice goalkeeper until the end of the season, although he stressed that the priority was his recovery, and only afterwards would the club assess his future.

With three weeks left before the end of the year, all eyes will be on what direction Ter Stegen’s situation ultimately takes.