Turkey’s haven for lost goalkeepers — Ter Stegen on the Black-and-Whites’ radar

Marc-Andre ter Stegen is closing in on a return from his back surgery, with a comeback to the pitch expected in December. But Barcelona faces a dilemma: the winter transfer window is looming, and reports from Catalan media suggest that the club has no plans to reinstate the German goalkeeper as first choice immediately.

Instead, Joan Garcia, 24, is set to claim the starting spot once he recovers from a torn meniscus, with veteran Wojciech Szczesny, 35, covering in the meantime. For ter Stegen, this presents a clear challenge: if he wants to secure regular playing time—which Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann insists is crucial for World Cup selection—he may have to leave Barcelona.

One concrete option has already emerged. Turkish outlet Fanatik reports that Besiktas is eager to take ter Stegen on loan, offering him a guaranteed starting role while covering part of his wages. The move would also give him European football in the Europa League.

While the goalkeeper remains under contract with Barca until 2028 and is reluctant to depart, his ambition to play at the World Cup is a strong motivating factor.

Other suitors may also be in the mix. According to Sport, Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, have expressed interest, and AS Monaco in France reportedly remains a potential destination for a loan.

For now, Ter Stegen’s priority is a full recovery. Once he’s fit, a meeting with Barcelona’s management is expected to determine the next steps in his career.