Barcelona have ambitions to significantly upgrade their attack this summer with the addition of a true superstar left winger, and the Blaugrana remain on the hunt for a world-class defensive midfielder after bidding farewell to icon Sergio Busquets.
In order to afford two world-class signings at premium positions, Barcelona must prepare to make several sales this summer, and it seems like Deco is prepared to let anyone who isn’t a world-class youngster leave.
That means a number of talented footballers with experience could be leaving Catalunya in 2024, including a couple of players who are among the elite at their positions.
According to a report from Achraf Ben Ayad, Saudi Arabia have offered Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen a “very interesting” contract offer.
Ter Stegen is one of the most highly-regarded goalkeepers in world football and was as important as Robert Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, or anyone else in Barça winning LaLiga last season.
However, ter Stegen does make frustrating mistakes, which is why some Culers believe the club would be better off without him and should move on for a younger goalkeeper they can trust more.
A lot of that criticism is harsh, but the reality is that if Barcelona get a major transfer offer from the Saudi Pro League, then they should take the money and run.
Ter Stegen saved nearly 85 percent of the shots he faced last season as arguably the best goalkeeper in the world, but that number has dropped precipitously to under 70 percent in the 2023/24 campaign.
The German international’s declining play in 2023/24 has been an underrated storyline in the overall disappointing season Barça have experienced, seemingly out of the title race compared to historic rivals Real Madrid.
Next season, ter Stegen will be 32 years old and exiting his prime, even as a goalkeeper. He is the kind of veteran, top talent the Saudi Pro League loves to have and throw money at, while he’s the kind of profile a top club like Barça should be selling.
Replacing ter Stegen won’t necessarily be easy, but it won’t be impossible either, especially in light of his iffy performances this season.
Deco knows football is a “What have you done for me lately?” kind of business, and because MATS isn’t at his best right now, moving on for a hefty transfer fee is an even easier decision.
Former editor of The Real Champs and Old Juve, covering Real Madrid and Juventus
