Ajax is increasingly frustrated with the prolonged negotiations involving the loan of German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen from FC Barcelona for the 2026/27 season. While almost all major deal points, including ter Stegen’s salary, have been settled, final approval is pending due to unresolved tax and regulatory matters related to the transfer.
Ajax head coach Michel, who previously worked with Ter Stegen at Girona and actively pushed for his signing, is eager to secure his services ahead of the season. The Dutch side began their preseason on July 1, having already played two friendlies (one win and one loss), and they want Ter Stegen ready for their UEFA Conference League opener on July 23.
On Barcelona’s side, Ter Stegen is currently undergoing medical evaluations after recovering from a serious left hamstring injury sustained in January during his loan period at Girona. The 34-year-old goalkeeper has seen his status in the Barça squad diminished due to the rise of Joan García, making his departure pertinent for both parties. The move would relieve some of Barcelona’s sizable wage bill, although the Catalan club is expected to cover a substantial portion of his salary.
What surprises and troubles Ajax is the unexpected delay given that both clubs were under the impression the deal was nearly complete. The necessary clarifications regarding the tax implications of Ter Stegen’s wages remain outstanding, raising concerns that the transfer could collapse if not resolved swiftly.
This situation highlights the complexity of modern football transfers wherein fiscal and regulatory conditions can hold as much weight as sporting factors. Prompt resolution by Barcelona would allow the loan to conclude soon, giving Ter Stegen time to integrate into the Ajax squad effectively. Failure to do so risks Ajax having to reconsider their goalkeeper options just days before the new season begins.
