Marc-Andre ter Stegen could be on his way out of Barcelona, with Girona interested in signing the German goalkeeper in January.
What's behind the move?
Girona's interest in Ter Stegen comes after he missed the opening four months of the campaign due to a back injury, and has since returned to full fitness, making his first appearance of the season in Barcelona's Copa Del Rey win vs Guadalajara on December 30.
Why Girona?
Girona are in need of a goalkeeper, as Croatia international Dominik Livaković has reached an agreement to return to Dinamo Zagreb, and Ter Stegen would provide a significant upgrade between the sticks.
Girona manager Michel acknowledged Ter Stegen's quality, stating "He is a top player, the entire world would like to have Ter Stegen".
What comes next?
A potential loan deal is on the table, with Barcelona needing to make space in their wage bill, and Ter Stegen requiring consistent minutes to make Germany's 2026 World Cup squad.
The relationship between Barcelona and Girona could facilitate negotiations, with Eric García enjoying a successful loan spell at Girona in 2023-24, which could serve as a precedent for Ter Stegen's potential move.
Barcelona vice president Rafael Yuste wished Girona good luck for the rest of the season, but refused to comment on Ter Stegen's situation, fueling speculation about the goalkeeper's future.
Ter Stegen's salary, reported to be around €15 million per year, would need to be partially covered by Barcelona, as Girona would be unable to fully pay his wages due to financial fair play regulations and La Liga's 1:1 rule.
The German goalkeeper may have to renounce a portion of his salary to facilitate the move, similar to what Livaković did when he joined Girona over the summer.
Girona's interest in Ter Stegen is ambitious, given their current position in La Liga's relegation zone, but the potential signing would be a significant coup for the club, and could provide Ter Stegen with the playing time he needs to revive his international career.