Marc-André ter Stegen is reportedly closing in on a year-long loan move to Ajax Amsterdam from Barcelona. The Germany international is nearing completion of the temporary switch to the Eredivisie side, according to reports in Spain.
The 32-year-old remains under contract with Barcelona until 2028, making a loan arrangement the most practical solution for all parties. Ter Stegen saw a previous loan to Girona curtailed by injury last term, leaving him short of match practice and prompting the search for regular first-team football elsewhere.
Míchel Connection
Ajax manager Míchel, who coached Girona during Ter Stegen’s brief stint there, has been instrumental in driving the transfer. The Spanish coach is understood to be a keen admirer of the goalkeeper and has since joined the Dutch club.
Their previous working relationship is viewed as crucial to ensuring Ter Stegen settles quickly in Amsterdam. The move would place the German international significantly closer to his homeland than during his decade-long stay in Catalonia.
Alternative Targets
Ajax have pursued Ter Stegen for several weeks as they sought to strengthen their goalkeeping department. Their search had also led them to Inter Milan veteran Yann Sommer, but the Switzerland international is now expected to join Belgian side Club Brugge instead.
This development appears to have accelerated Ajax’s pursuit of the Barcelona keeper. Final negotiations are understood to be at an advanced stage, with the Dutch side hopeful of securing an experienced shot-stopper with substantial Champions League pedigree ahead of their domestic and European campaigns.