Manchester United Make Bold Move for Barcelona's Star Keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen
Manchester United are said to be interested in Barcelona's goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen as both teams start planning for the upcoming January transfer period.
SPORT indicates that Barcelona remains dedicated to Joan García, who is expected to return shortly from a brief injury layoff. With no intention of bringing Ter Stegen back into the fold, the Catalan side will allow the goalkeeper to determine his own future, only considering a departure if he expresses that desire. Similarly, if he chooses to remain and attempt to reclaim his position in the squad, Barcelona will respect that decision.
Nevertheless, there appears to be considerable interest in the player that the club recognizes. Manchester United have made inquiries, along with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, as reported by SPORT. A temporary move with a purchase option would probably be the arrangement if the keeper shows interest.
Ter Stegen found himself displaced in Catalonia by summer acquisition García, even prior to spinal surgery that kept the team captain out for several months. However, it was this injury that brought Barcelona into conflict with the German goalkeeper.
Barcelona, Man Utd Underwent Similar Goalkeeping Changes Recently
The organization sought La Liga's medical board to classify Ter Stegen as a 'long-term' injury situation, which would enable them to temporarily exclude his wages from the salary limit and register García in his place. Ter Stegen initially withheld his approval and Barcelona attempted to push the matter forward.
During his absence, Ter Stegen's prospects remain uncertain. However, once he returns to fitness, expected by late November, a resolution benefiting both sides may need to be reached.
Manchester United's goalkeeper situation has seen significant changes in recent months. André Onana was displaced as the primary keeper following a preseason injury, failing to regain his position and eventually moving to Trabzonspor on a temporary basis.
Altay Bayındır was expected to leave before that development, having appeared just 11 times across his initial two campaigns with the team, but has stayed. Nevertheless, the Turkish player has faced criticism for his recent displays, with United also bringing in Senne Lammens. The 23-year-old Belgian made his first appearance in Saturday's victory against Sunderland.
With Tom Heaton approaching 40 this campaign and his contract expiring in the summer, it makes sense that United might need a new veteran presence in the goalkeeper position, someone like Ter Stegen.