Ajax chase Barcelona's high‑wage keeper: salary split holds key

Marc-Andre ter Stegen is in advanced talks for a loan move from Barcelona to Ajax, with salary sharing the decisive factor, with Ajax preparing an initial loan agreement.

Barcelona have struggled in recent seasons to secure exits for players outside the core plan, often dragging deals to deadline day. This summer, director Deco is handling exits earlier, exemplified by Ansu Fati’s pending permanent move to AS Monaco, which will remove his hefty wages.

Ter Stegen is no longer in Hansi Flick’s plans, as the hierarchy now lists Joan Garcia as first‑choice goalkeeper and Wojciech Szczesny as the backup. The lack of a defined role makes a loan move logical for both parties.

Ajax’s new coach Michel and sporting director Jordi Cruyff both want the German as their new number one, marking a step up from earlier interest. The Dutch club had been monitoring ter Stegen for weeks, and the operation now appears more serious.

The main hurdle discussed is the salary split, given ter Stegen’s substantial wages and Barcelona’s need for financial leeway. If Ajax assumes a meaningful portion of his salary, Barcelona could reinvest the saved funds elsewhere in the squad.

A loan would give ter Stegen a fresh start at a serious European club, while Michel gains leadership in goal and Barcelona eases wage‑bill pressure. The German’s recent fitness issues add urgency, and the final terms will determine whether the loan proceeds for the rest of the season.