According to MARCA, Barcelona and Marc-Andre ter Stegen have already begun negotiations over a contract renewal. The German shot-stopper has been the team’s mainstay in goal for a long time now and is seen as a vital part of Xavi’s plans.
The shot-stopper’s current deal with the Catalans runs out in June 2025. The proposed extension will see him in Blaugrana colours until 2028, and Barcelona hope to finish the formalities swiftly to detract any suitors.
There appears to be a complete agreement between Ter Stegen and the board over the agenda. The German is very happy at the club and the board value not only his quality between the sticks but also his leadership on the field.
At 31 years of age, Ter Stegen is now one of the seniors in the dressing room. With Jordi Alba, Gerard Pique, and Sergio Busquets no longer around, he is set to become the team’s second captain next season, only after Sergi Roberto.
In fact, he will likely lead the side for most of the upcoming campaign given that the right-back is not a regular starter under Xavi Hernandez.
Last season, Ter Stegen was in imperious form for Barcelona and gunned down any competition to snatch the Zamora Trophy. He played a part in all 38 of Barcelona’s games in La Liga, maintaining a stunning 26 clean sheets and conceding just 18 goals in the process.
Looking ahead to the next campaign, Xavi will once again look towards the goalkeeper to maintain his stupendous form. After all, Ter Stegen was arguably Barcelona’s most important player in their title-winning run.
And, the Catalans intend to keep hold of him for a long time until 2028, essentially ensuring that he ends his career at the club.
There have been talks of Ter Stegen adjusting his salary as well in order to help out the Blaugrana amidst their current financial turmoil. Whether that comes to fruition or not remains to be seen, but a new deal for the German would certainly be well-deserved.
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