FC Barcelona Eyeing Potential Buyer for Goalkeeper Ter Stegen

BARCELONA, Spain — FC Barcelona may have a potential buyer for goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, according to sources. Barcelona is reportedly considering a move for Espanyol‘s Joan Garcia, who has been one of the standout players in La Liga this season.

Garcia has a release clause set at €25 million (approximately $28.5 million), following his significant contributions that helped Espanyol avoid relegation in the 2024/2025 season. However, he was not included in the latest squad for Spain’s national team.

Barcelona President Joan Laporta hinted at a possible switch for Garcia during a press conference. Ter Stegen, on the other hand, dismissed rumors about his future at Barcelona, affirming, “No one has told me about this, so I don’t know the situation. I’m not worried. I know that I will be at Barcelona next year.”

Ter Stegen acknowledged the team’s current goalkeeper situation, adding, “If I remember correctly, and if no news has happened in the last few hours, we only have two goalkeepers for next season, Iñaki Peña and me.” He also noted that there may be an impending contract renewal for Peña.

While Al-Hilal has expressed strong interest in Ter Stegen and is prepared to pay a significant transfer fee, the German international seems hesitant to leave European football. Moving to the Saudi Pro League could jeopardize his chances of being Germany’s primary goalkeeper for the next World Cup, scheduled for 2026 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

As Barcelona prepares for the upcoming season, they are weighing their options with several potential goalkeeper candidates, including Garcia and others. The club’s approach will depend on the future decisions regarding their current players.