Marc-André ter Stegen, the goalkeeper for FC Barcelona since 2014, has been a significant figure in the Catalan team. Now at the age of 32, the German goalkeeper has sparked keen interest from Saudi Arabia.
Joining Barcelona in the summer transfer window of 2014 from Borussia Mönchengladbach, Marc-André ter Stegen initially arrived at Barça as the second-choice goalkeeper. Initially limited to playing in Cup matches (Copa del Rey and Champions League), he gradually established himself as a goalkeeper who could become indispensable for the Catalan team. Quickly, he became the undisputed starter at FC Barcelona. Despite facing tough competition in the national team with Manuel Neuer, he serves as the second goalkeeper for the German national team.
Today, the player has just turned 32. After nearly 10 years at Barcelona, the native of Mönchengladbach still holds his position as the undisputed starter in goal. However, the German goalkeeper could potentially leave Catalonia this summer. Indeed, ter Stegen has attracted significant interest from Saudi Arabia, specifically from Al Ittihad FC. This is the team where Ngolo Kanté and the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, Karim Benzema, currently play.
Financial Incentives
As we know, when Saudi Arabia comes knocking, it’s hard to refuse. Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in the country, many players have joined him, tempted by irresistible financial offers. Among the top 10 highest-paid players in the world, eight players come from the Saudi League.
If Al Ittihad presents an offer to the German goalkeeper, there’s a strong chance that ter Stegen will accept. Moreover, the player is under contract until 2028. Therefore, the Saudi club will need to offer a transfer fee to FC Barcelona to initiate negotiations. Considering the financial challenges currently facing the Catalan club, it’s easy to imagine the Blaugranas considering and accepting a good offer for their goalkeeper.
🚨🎖️| BREAKING: Al Ittihad FC greatly admires Ter Stegen. The German goalkeeper is a target for the Saudi club. [@FabrizioRomano] #fcblive 🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/rA7O2Gmxfd
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) May 12, 2024
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings