Barcelona faces a new hurdle in Marc-André ter Stegen’s loan move to Ajax. The German goalkeeper, the club’s captain, will see his loan delayed until August due to tax issues, AS reports. The preliminary deal between Barcelona, Ajax and the player remains intact, but administrative paperwork is holding up the final signature.
Barça enter the new season as La Liga 2025 champions with 94 points and 31 wins from 38 games. Their next fixture is against Levante on February 21, 2027 at home.
What happened with Ter Stegen’s loan?
The move was announced weeks ago as a season-long loan, but tax authorities have yet to clear the financial details. Ter Stegen, 34, was expected to complete his transfer before pre-season began, but the club is now weighing options. Manager Hansi Flick will decide whether the goalkeeper joins the squad in England or stays in Barcelona.
Barça have scored 95 goals and conceded just 36 this season, averaging 2.5 goals per game. Ter Stegen, injured during his loan at Girona last term, risks missing the start of pre-season if the delay drags on.
Why does this matter for Barcelona?
The administrative delay doesn’t threaten the deal itself, but it forces Flick to rethink squad plans. The team needs an experienced keeper for the tour, and Ter Stegen is a key dressing-room figure. The alternative is to travel without him and rely on youngsters like Pau López or Arnau Tenas.
Barça lead the table by eight points over Real Madrid. Ter Stegen’s loan doesn’t change sporting plans, but it disrupts the technical staff’s logistics.
What comes next?
The squad leaves for England next Monday. Flick will decide if Ter Stegen joins the group or stays in Spain to sort out the paperwork. Inside the club, they’re confident the delay is temporary and the transfer will close before August.
Barça ended last season as champions with a 31-1-6 record. Pre-season will be crucial to finalize the starting XI with or without Ter Stegen in goal.
