Barcelona captain gives initial green light to Girona switch – Report

Marc-Andre ter Stegen remains the FC Barcelona player facing the most uncertain future as his role in the squad continues to diminish. The German goalkeeper has lost his status as first choice, with Hansi Flick firmly backing Joan Garcia as his undisputed number one across LaLiga, the Champions League, and the Super Cup.

Even last season, Ter Stegen found himself behind Wojciech Szczesny in the pecking order when available, a clear signal that his standing has shifted.

According to SPORT, there has now been a significant development. Ter Stegen is open to the idea of leaving Barcelona during the current transfer window and would be willing to say yes to a move to Girona.

The motivation is clear and purely sporting. At this stage of his career, the goalkeeper wants regular minutes and a guaranteed starting role to strengthen his chances of reclaiming the number one spot for Germany ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Playing under Michel at Montilivi is viewed positively, as it would allow him to compete consistently at a high level.

However, the operation is far from straightforward. Ter Stegen is not prepared to leave Barcelona at any cost and is unwilling to give up any part of his salary. Barcelona, for their part, are demanding that Girona take on roughly 20 to 25 percent of the remaining wages in his contract.

This is a figure the Girona side currently cannot reach, especially after the departure of Livakovic, who earned just over €300k at the club. Despite this, Ter Stegen has urged Girona to explore solutions that could convince Barcelona to approve the move now that his willingness to join has been made clear.

From Barcelona’s perspective, a departure makes sense on a sporting level even if Flick could still offer Ter Stegen occasional appearances. In decisive matches and major competitions, the hierarchy is settled with Joan Garcia as the starter. The Copa del Rey from the round of 16 onwards represents the only realistic opportunity for Ter Stegen to see meaningful minutes should he remain at the club.

Financially, a loan would not be ideal as Barcelona would still cover most of the goalkeeper’s salary, but the club views an exit favorably to ease the management of a delicate situation in the dressing room.

Above all, Barcelona want to respect Ter Stegen’s status as captain and club legend. If the German is determined to play for Girona, the club is willing to facilitate the move within reasonable limits, as the financial gain would not significantly alter their situation.

For now, the outcome remains open. Much will depend on whether Girona can find a formula that satisfies Barcelona’s conditions and whether all parties can reach an agreement before the transfer window closes and the World Cup draws closer.