Barcelona's ter Stegen faces stalled Ajax move

Barcelona veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen's potential move to Ajax has stalled as wage issues emerge. The German international remains under a long-term contract with a salary among the highest in the squad. Ter Stegen returned from a loan at Girona that was disrupted by surgery. His hefty wages have deterred clubs from making solid offers. Ajax showed interest after appointing Michel as manager. However, the Dutch giants cannot meet the German's wages. Instead they are in advanced talks with free-agent goalkeeper Yann Sommer. Sommer, also a free agent this summer, shares a Borussia Monchengladbach background with ter Stegen. If Ajax secure Sommer, the door for ter Stegen closes. Barcelona's options are limited; a loan with partial salary coverage mirrors the Girona arrangement. Ter Stegen has set strict conditions, prioritising family well‑being and refusing moves to exotic locations. He will join Barcelona's pre‑season camp to work on fitness before deciding his future. Photo credit for the accompanying images goes to Alex Caparros.