Ter Stegen's substitution in the Copa Round of 16 match against Real Racing Club de Santander was the final trigger. The goalkeeper has communicated his decision to seek a new team where he can enjoy the minutes that the Catalan club cannot guarantee him, according to Alfredo Martínez.
The player's entourage is already finalizing the details of the operation with Girona, which would be closed as a loan. This move reportedly received approval from LaLiga, even though Girona FC is close to its salary fair play limit. The previous departure of Dominik Livaković, which frees up about 300,000 euros, facilitates the German's registration.
Girona and Barça continue negotiating the economic terms, where the Girona club could assume around 20% of Ter Stegen's high salary, who will forgive part of his wage to facilitate the agreement between the two Catalan clubs.
Ter Stegen's decision is based on the extraordinary performance of Joan Garcia, the goalkeeper from Sallent, who has shown an “astronomical and unattainable” level since recovering from his meniscus injury. This situation forces the current Barça captain to seek continuity to maintain his chances with the German national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
