Marc-Andre ter Stegen misses Barcelona training amid Ajax transfer talks

Marc-Andre ter Stegen was notably absent from Barcelona’s pre-season training session on Thursday, 18 July, as the club confirmed he has been granted permission to finalize a transfer away from Camp Nou. The 34-year-old goalkeeper is expected to complete a second consecutive loan move, this time to Dutch giants Ajax, after spending the second half of last season with Girona.

What happened during Barcelona’s training session?

Ter Stegen returned to Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva earlier this week for routine medical tests and to begin pre-season preparations. However, manager Hansi Flick and his staff informed the German shot-stopper that he would not be required to participate in Thursday’s training. According to Mundo Deportivo, negotiations between Ajax and Ter Stegen are nearly complete, with only tax-related formalities remaining before an official announcement.

Why is Ter Stegen leaving Barcelona again?

This marks the second successive summer in which Ter Stegen has been loaned out by Barcelona. Last season, he joined Girona on a temporary deal, helping the Catalan side secure a top-four finish in La Liga. With Barcelona’s goalkeeping situation evolving, the club has opted to send Ter Stegen on another loan, this time to Ajax, where he is expected to provide experienced leadership between the posts.

What’s next for Ter Stegen and Ajax?

An official announcement regarding Ter Stegen’s move to Ajax could come as early as this weekend. The Dutch club, known for their strong defensive organization, will benefit from the veteran’s presence as they prepare for the upcoming Eredivisie season. Meanwhile, Barcelona will continue their pre-season preparations without their former first-choice goalkeeper, focusing on integrating new signings ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.