Reports indicate that Barcelona, Ajax, and the German international had reached a preliminary agreement for a season-long loan in the weeks prior. However, unresolved financial matters tied to taxation have hindered the finalisation of the deal, making it unlikely to be completed before August.
The situation places Hansi Flick in a difficult early decision, as he must decide whether ter Stegen travels with the squad for a training camp at St George’s Park in England or remains with Barcelona in Spain. The coaching staff remains hopeful that the delay is administrative rather than sporting, with the transfer still viewed as likely to go ahead once the tax issues are resolved.
If the move proceeds, ter Stegen would reunite with Ajax manager Míchel, who took charge of the Dutch club after leaving Girona. The goalkeeper spent a loan spell with Girona last season, which was cut short due to injury, limiting him to just a couple of appearances. With paperwork still pending, Barcelona are preparing for the possibility that their captain stays with the first-team squad for at least another week.
Flick’s final say will determine whether ter Stegen joins the England training camp. The squad is due to travel to St George’s Park next Monday for the next stage of pre-season, and the Barcelona manager will decide whether the experienced keeper travels with the group or remains in Spain.
Club insiders remain confident that the delay is administrative rather than a concern over the player’s commitment or form. The outstanding tax issues are currently the only factor preventing an official signing, and all parties continue to focus on timing and resolution rather than questioning the destination.
In summary, tax complications have stalled the announced Ajax loan for Marc-Andre ter Stegen. While the overarching agreement remains in place, the final paperwork is pending, likely pushing the completion into August as pre-season preparations continue.
