Explained: Why Marc-Andre ter Stegen tensions could stop Barcelona signing top attacking target

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The ongoing fallout between Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Barcelona could stop the Spanish club from pursuing a deal for Atalanta's Ademola Lookman.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Barcelona's attempts to sign a new attacker have hit multiple roadblocks this summer. Nico Williams' decision to stay in Bilbao, rumours linking Luis Diaz to Bayern and the ongoing haggling over Marcus Rashford's future have provided little hope for La Blaugrana. Lookman has latterly emerged as a possible option for the Spanish giants, as it is believed Atalanta will accept an offer of less than €50 million (£43m/$58m) for the 27-year-old. However, the Nigerian star is represented by the same agency as ter Stegen, potentially scuppering negotiations.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE

The fractious fallout between ter Stegen and his club of more than 11 years has rumbled on through the summer. The initial fallout came after the signing of Joan Garcia, who is the presumptive favourite to start in Hansi Flick's team going forward. In fact, recent reports suggest the German international may be third choice behind Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny. The Polish international has signed a new deal that will see him remain at the Camp Nou until 2027.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ter Stegen is believed to be furious about being forced out of the club, and while rumours of a transfer to Monaco were floated, it the shot stopper rejected those advances. It has been suggested that ter Stegen will leave the club if the remainder of his deal is paid in full. He is under contract until 2028.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen

WHAT NEXT FOR TER STEGEN?

It is highly unlikely the club will give into those demands, given their perilous financial situation over the past four seasons. The 33-year-old is seemingly prepared to stay at the Camp Nou and fight for his spot.