The summer transfer window has not officially opened yet, but FC Barcelona are already shaping key outgoing moves. Sporting director Deco is actively assessing two significant departures that could redefine the squad structure. Financial balance and long-term planning are driving the strategy.
One of the most delicate situations involves Marc-André ter Stegen. The former first captain has seen his scenario shift dramatically in recent months. His loan to Girona FC was designed to restore continuity and rebuild competitive momentum.
Instead, events unfolded in the worst possible way. Shortly after regaining fitness and debuting for Girona, the German goalkeeper suffered another injury setback. A subsequent surgical procedure will sideline him for several months, seriously jeopardising his hopes of being Germany’s number one at the upcoming World Cup.
Germany reacts, Barça reassesses
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann described the situation to Kicker as “tragic” for the player. He acknowledged that, following Manuel Neuer’s international retirement, Ter Stegen would have naturally stepped into the leading role. However, the lack of competitive minutes weighs heavily.
With Oliver Baumann currently viewed as the safest option, Ter Stegen would need an accelerated yet stable return before season’s end to reopen the debate. Time, however, is tight.
Inside Barcelona, patience is giving way to pragmatism. Joan García has been identified as the long-term successor, and the club’s planning does not automatically guarantee Ter Stegen’s reinstatement as starter. His high salary also represents a significant factor within Financial Fair Play limitations.
If a reasonable offer arrives, Barça are prepared to study it carefully. A permanent transfer would free crucial wage margin and allow the club to close the goalkeeping transition definitively.
Ansu Fati also heading toward the exit
Ter Stegen may not be the only notable departure. Ansu Fati also has strong chances of being sold permanently this summer. After failing to fully rediscover his best form following multiple injuries, his future no longer appears secure.
The coaching staff do not see him as a guaranteed pillar of the next sporting cycle. From a financial standpoint, a sale would provide additional flexibility to reinvest in priority areas. Interest from abroad remains active, and the club are open to definitive solutions rather than further temporary loans.
A strategic summer ahead
What once looked like isolated situations are now part of a broader restructuring. Ter Stegen’s unfortunate injury may accelerate a goodbye that once seemed unthinkable. Meanwhile, Ansu Fati’s trajectory appears increasingly detached from the club’s core project.
For Deco, the objective is clear: rebalance the squad, reduce salary pressure and create room for targeted reinforcements. The process is already underway — and both cases suggest that this summer could mark the end of two significant chapters at Barcelona.
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