FC Barcelona has reached a full agreement for the loan of Ansu Fati to Monaco. After several weeks of negotiations, the youth academy graduate has accepted an extra year on his contract to "lower" his salary for this season. What remains will be split between both clubs, which will each pay 50% of his salary.
In this regard, the Monegasque side has secured a purchase option for next summer, valued at about €11 million. If this is exercised, Barça wouldn't lose control over Ansu Fati, retaining the possibility to buy him back in the future.
Ansu Fati's departure has been welcomed with open arms at Spotify Camp Nou, removing a significant portion of the culer wage bill. This loan opens the door to important registrations... which could also be facilitated by another surprise departure that also interests Monaco: that of Ter Stegen.
Monaco comes for Ter Stegen
The latest information uncovered by L'Équipe has come as a surprise. Monaco is looking for a goalkeeper this season and has started working to explore the arrival of Ter Stegen.
The entourage of Barça's captain has spoken personally with Monaco, closing the door, for now, to any kind of departure. At this time, his intention is to continue in Barcelona, although this is a destination he could consider in the long run. If his situation becomes complicated, he would be open to leaving for the Ligue 1 club because it plays in the Champions League.
If Ter Stegen decided to approve his departure to Monaco, Barça wouldn't put up any kind of obstacle. They would let him leave completely free of charge, as long as he forgives the salary he is still owed. With the German leaving, it would allow the registration of the signings that are in progress.
Ter Stegen, to the bench
Ter Stegen is experiencing one of the most uncertain moments of his career at FC Barcelona. At 33 years old and after nearly a decade as Camp Nou's guardian, the captain finds himself in an increasingly delicate position. The club has finalized the arrival of Joan García, one of LaLiga's breakout goalkeepers with Espanyol, with the clear intention of making him the new starter between the posts.
The commitment to youth and potential doesn't end there. Barça also has the renewal of Wojciech Szczesny, the veteran Polish goalkeeper, practically finalized as a reliable backup. This new scenario leaves Ter Stegen without a place, neither as first-choice goalkeeper nor as a second option. A situation that seemed unthinkable just a year ago.
Ter Stegen remains committed to the club, but he is also aware that his role has changed. The board and coaching staff believe his cycle is close to ending, even though his contract is still valid. The German, who has been key in difficult moments and one of the leaders in the locker room, will have to make an important decision in the coming weeks: fight for a spot... or look for it away from Barça.