In a surprising turn of events, Turkish giants Galatasaray have withdrawn their interest in signing a prominent Barcelona star.
The Istanbul-based club had been actively pursuing the 33-year-old player for weeks, making multiple offers in an attempt to secure his services.
However, after facing consistent rejections, Galatasaray has decided to shift its focus elsewhere, marking a significant development in the summer transfer window.
The decision comes as the player remains steadfast in his commitment to his current club, leaving the Turkish side to explore alternative targets to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.
The player in question is none other than Barcelona’s captain and goalkeeper, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, according to a recent report from Diario Sport.
Galatasaray had identified the German shot-stopper as a key target to strengthen their roster, particularly after their recent Turkish Super Lig triumph.
The club reportedly tabled an improved offer, hoping to lure Ter Stegen to Turkey with a lucrative deal rumored to include €5 million net per season.
Despite their persistence, Ter Stegen’s firm stance on staying with Barcelona, where he has a contract until 2028, has forced Galatasaray to abandon their pursuit.
The goalkeeper’s decision is influenced by personal factors, including his happiness in Barcelona and a desire for stability following a recent separation, as well as his ambition to remain Germany’s No. 1 for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This development leaves Barcelona in a complex situation.
The arrival of Joan Garcia from Espanyol as a long-term successor has cast doubts over Ter Stegen’s role, yet his high salary and long-term contract make a departure challenging.
Other clubs, including Manchester City and Chelsea, have also approached the goalkeeper, but he has rejected these overtures, determined to compete for his spot.
As Barcelona grapples with financial fair play constraints, offloading Ter Stegen’s wages could be beneficial, but his resolve to stay complicates matters.
For now, Galatasaray’s withdrawal shifts the focus to Ter Stegen’s upcoming discussions with manager Hansi Flick, which will likely determine his future at the Camp Nou.
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