Chelsea is plotting a January swoop for a Barcelona veteran to inject experience and stability into their squad.
Stamford Bridge planners favor a loan move for a 33-year-old leader boasting Champions League triumphs and international pedigree, ensuring minimal long-term risk while addressing immediate needs.
As the January window nears, the Blues have pinpointed a Barcelona stalwart whose recovery timeline and ambition for consistent minutes make him an ideal short-term fit.
The veteran is goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, sidelined since July back surgery but progressing toward full fitness, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
With Joan García entrenched as Hansi Flick’s No. 1 and Wojciech Szczęsny excelling in El Clásico, ter Stegen’s path to starts appears blocked.
Sky Sports highlights Chelsea’s intent to secure him on loan, positioning him to challenge Robert Sánchez and mentor Filip Jörgensen.
AC Milan’s Mike Maignan looms as another option, but ter Stegen’s World Cup dreams—requiring regular play—dovetail with Chelsea’s setup.
Barcelona remains open to a temporary exit, valuing ter Stegen’s legacy yet prioritizing squad harmony.
His €30 million market value and €8 million salary pose no barrier for a loan, with Chelsea covering wages.
German reports vary—some suggest openness to departure, others loyalty—but minutes remain paramount.
For Chelsea, ter Stegen offers proven shot-stopping and distribution, potentially transforming their backline.
As negotiations brew, this move could redefine both clubs’ trajectories mid-season.
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