Ajax youngster all but confirms Barcelona captain’s arrival: ‘You can learn so much from him’

Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s future has been in the works for some time now, with the German goalkeeper negotiating an exit from the Catalan club.

Still Barcelona’s first captain, Ter Stegen has fallen down the pecking order under Hansi Flick. The arrival of Joan Garcia, combined with his injury issues, has seen him lose prominence.

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It does look like the veteran star is moving closer to a Barcelona exit, with Ajax players already speaking about the German goalkeeper as though his arrival is only a matter of time.

Ajax brace themselves for ter Stegen’s arrival

Aaron Bouwman, an 18-year-old Ajax defender and one of the club’s most highly rated young players, spoke openly about the goalkeeper’s expected arrival during an interview with Dutch television channel AT5 (h/t SPORT).

He said: “You can learn so much from him because he played for FC Barcelona for years. You can learn a lot from his experience when he comes to play here.”

On his way to Ajax. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

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Those words do not amount to an official confirmation, but they show how advanced the expectation has become within the Ajax dressing room.

Ter Stegen is already being viewed not only as a new goalkeeper, but also as a mentor for a young squad.

A loan that could suit Barcelona

Ter Stegen is set to join Ajax on loan and take on a leading role in Michel’s new project.

After 11 seasons at Barcelona, the move would give him a fresh start while also helping Barça manage a complicated goalkeeping situation.

Although this would just be a temporary departure, it would be one that massively benefits the Catalan club.

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Ter Stegen would gain regular football in a major European league and, if he can stay fit and impress, Barcelona may be able to move him on next summer.

A reunion with Michel awaits. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Ajax also look like a logical destination for him. Their footballing identity places importance on playing from the back, technical quality and responsibility in possession, all areas in which Ter Stegen has built much of his reputation.

Barcelona still need official closure

Ter Stegen moving to Ajax is essentially Barcelona kicking the can down the road until next summer.

The 34-year-old is a Barça great, and his future needs to be handled delicately. As a high earner with a long-term contract, he leaves the Catalan club having to take each summer as it comes.

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The biggest problem for the German in recent seasons has been his fitness. If he can be available, everyone knows about the quality that he possesses.

A lot depends on how his time at Ajax goes, but it does look like the Dutch club are already prepared to welcome him.

It remains to be seen how long it takes before ter Stegen’s move to the Eredivisie club is made official.

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