A former Real Madrid goalkeeper has been linked with a shock move to FC Barcelona.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen sustained an injury during Sunday’s 5-1 La Liga victory over Villarreal, likely rupturing the patellar tendon in his right knee.
Manager Hansi Flick is considering signing a goalkeeper on a short-term basis to fill the void left by their captain.
As speculation mounts about potential replacements for Ter Stegen, reports suggest that Keylor Navas, a former player for Real Madrid, has made himself available, along with an ex-Premier League goalkeeper.
According to Ferran Martínez, Navas has offered to join Barcelona. The 37-year-old recently departed PSG in search of new opportunities after a loan with Nottingham Forest did not lead to a permanent deal, leaving him a free agent.
This month, Navas has been training with his first club, Saprissa, in Costa Rica, and he is reportedly open to a move to Barcelona, awaiting a call from the club.
After the match, Flick expressed that the disappointment of Ter Stegen’s injury overshadowed the team’s victory.
“The fans watching on TV and those in the stadium witnessed an incredible game,” Flick reflected on Sunday.
“The pace and dynamics were impressive, and while we’re happy with the result, we feel sad for Ter Stegen since he’s one of our captains.
“It was a tough match because Villarreal never gives up; we’ve studied them, and they play an enjoyable style. However, we performed well and must continue to build on that,” he added.
Ter Stegen is crucial for us and for the German national team. Despite facing criticism from Barca fans after conceding a goal to Monaco in the Champions League last week, he has made over 400 appearances for the club since joining from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2014.
He became captain in December 2022 following Gerard Pique’s retirement. Ter Stegen has a strong working relationship with Flick, who took over as Xavi’s successor earlier this summer.
