One of the world's leading goalkeepers is Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but his current situation at Barcelona suggests that the veteran goalkeeper will end his career at another club. Tottenham have shown strong interest in signing him, but it looks like Chelsea will be the ones to close the deal.
According to the latest reports in the English press, the German's future at Barcelona is increasingly uncertain, with the current La Liga champions looking to reduce their high wage bill. Although he still has a contract until 2028, the goalkeeper is injured (following back surgery) and will only be able to return to the pitch in January 2026. In this situation, Barcelona has not ruled out his departure in the winter transfer window, especially on loan.
Chelsea ahead of Tottenham in negotiations with Barcelona
Tottenham has been identified as one of the clubs that has approached the possibility, but it is unlikely that it will close the deal in January: the London club seems satisfied with Vicario as its first-choice goalkeeper due to his good performances at the start of the Premier League season, and does not want to bring in someone with a massive salary who, in the immediate future, cannot guarantee a starting spot.
In contrast, Chelsea appears to be a more plausible alternative: if it manages to negotiate a temporary loan, it could secure Ter Stegen for the second half of the season while waiting for the opportunity to sign another long-term option.
The latest updates indicate that a loan agreement would be the most realistic option, with Chelsea negotiating who pays part of his salary while he is recovering. On the other hand, Barcelona is interested in reducing its payroll and would therefore be open to a loan or a transfer that would free up salary space. There are even reports that Barcelona would be willing to help with the deal by paying part of his salary to facilitate a transfer.
Finally, Ter Stegen would only agree to terminate his contract if he received the remaining salary until 2028, estimated at around €42 million, if the information reported by the Spanish press is accurate.