Just a few days ago, Ajax confirmed the arrival of Míchel in Amsterdam. The Spanish coach, landing in the Netherlands after a tough relegation with Girona, has started mapping out his plan. The first clear request from the coach has been to strengthen the goal with a player of guarantees and international experience.
The name that has emerged is that of Marc-André ter Stegen. The experienced German goalkeeper, according to the latest rumors about FC Barcelona, has been left out of Hansi Flick's plans, especially after Joan García's consolidation in the starting eleven and the possible arrival of Álex Remiro to complete the blaugrana goal. Despite his quality, Ter Stegen would need to seek a new destination to enjoy playing time.
Marc-André ter Stegen, forced to lower his salary: earns 13-15 M€ per season at Barça
Ajax sees Ter Stegen as a goalkeeper with European experience, capable of competing in the Eredivisie and continental competitions. The arrival of the German would represent a quality leap for the Dutch club and would meet the requirements of Míchel's new project.
However, the operation is complicated for several reasons. First, the player's salary is a problem. Ter Stegen earns between 13 and 15 million euros per season at Barça, while Ajax, even with its maximum offer, could only reach around two million per season. This implies a significant salary reduction that the German would have to accept to make the jump to the Eredivisie.
The second major obstacle is the price set by FC Barcelona. With the need to recoup part of the investment and aware of the goalkeeper's level, the blaugranas are not willing to let Ter Stegen go at any price. Ajax would have to submit an offer commensurate with his quality to persuade the Catalan board to close the deal.
The operation is not impossible but will require negotiation and patience. Ter Stegen will have to prioritize playing time and prominence over economic aspects if he wishes to fulfill his goal of playing regularly next season.
Marc-André ter Stegen finds himself at a critical point in his career. After years of being one of the best goalkeepers in the world, he now sees his place at Barcelona diminishing. The competition from Joan García and the impending arrival of Álex Remiro force him to consider a change of scenery to maintain his level and sporting aspirations.
Accepting a much lower salary than he currently earns will be a difficult decision. The difference is significant, and although the prospect of playing in Europe with Ajax is enticing, the German will have to assess whether the economic sacrifice is worth it compared to his continuity at a historic club like Barça.
Nevertheless, Ajax's proposal also offers advantages. Being an undisputed starter, competing in the Europa League or the Champions League, and working with a coach like Míchel could make the offer appealing. Moreover, it would entail a leadership role in the dressing room, something that Ter Stegen may not be assured of at Barcelona.
The Dutch club has already made a move. They have contacted the player's entourage and made it clear that strengthening the team is a priority. Ajax is confident that Ter Stegen will value the sporting opportunity and accept the salary reduction. Simultaneously, they are working to adjust the financial proposal and meet Barcelona's demands.
If all goes according to plan, the arrival of the German will be a game-changer for the Eredivisie and Míchel's squad. Ter Stegen would bring experience, security in goal, and leadership, key elements for a team aiming to compete at the highest European level again.
Although there are still several obstacles to overcome, the negotiation is progressing. Both Ajax and Ter Stegen know that this operation could mark a turning point in the goalkeeper's career and in the Dutch club's planning. The next transfer window will be crucial to finalize this move.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Ajax de Míchel quiere sacar a Ter Stegen del Barça