Barcelona Signs Joan Garcia, Plans Ter Stegen Exit

FC Barcelona is set to sign goalkeeper Joan García from Espanyol for €25 million, a move that signals the likely departure of long-time starter Marc-André ter Stegen. Ter Stegen, who suffered a serious injury last season and has since lost his starting position, faces challenges due to his high salary and contract running until 2028, which complicates his fit in the club's new sporting project. Sporting director Deco and the club management have decided it is not feasible to keep both goalkeepers, prompting Barcelona to offer Ter Stegen a contract termination with financial compensation to facilitate his free transfer. Despite Ter Stegen's preference to remain at Barcelona and his readiness to contest the decision, the club is preparing to announce García's arrival and plans to renew Wojciech Szczęsny as an experienced backup, aiming for a mix of youth and experience in goal. Ter Stegen has reportedly been offered a starting role by AC Milan, and talks regarding his departure are expected to commence soon. Barcelona's president Joan Laporta and coach Hansi Flick support this transition to stabilize the squad financially and competitively for the upcoming season.