FC Barcelona is reportedly set to cover a significant portion of veteran goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen's wages, amounting to around €15 million, to facilitate his loan move to Ajax this season.
The Catalan giants have long grappled with salary cap limitations, often forcing difficult decisions regarding player exits and complex financial maneuvers to register new signings. A major factor contributing to these ongoing struggles has been the club's substantial wage bill, a legacy issue that continues to impact their financial flexibility.
Ter Stegen, who is 34 years old and signed a contract extension until 2028 just two years ago, is now considered surplus to requirements following the arrival of Joan Garcia. Despite his captaincy, Barcelona has been actively seeking to move him on for some time.
Last season, ter Stegen spent the latter half of the campaign on loan at Girona, but his stint was cut short by an injury sustained shortly after his arrival. The upcoming loan to Ajax faces a hurdle with the Dutch club unwilling to absorb a substantial part of his considerable salary, leaving Barcelona to bridge the gap.
This financial commitment to ter Stegen's loan, coupled with the potential acquisition of Anthony Gordon, which could require approximately €16 million plus wages, highlights Barcelona's ongoing efforts to manage their finances. The club is expected to pursue further player sales this summer to ease their salary limit pressures and return to compliance.
