Ter Stegen Nears Ajax Loan Transfer After Weekend Medical

Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is set to complete a season-long loan move from FC Barcelona to Ajax this weekend, according to reports from De Telegraaf and Het Parool. The 34-year-old German international received clearance to travel from his club’s training camp in England to Amsterdam, where he will undergo a medical examination and finalize his contract.

Transfer Details and Medical Schedule

Ajax reached an agreement in principle with both FC Barcelona and the player nearly a month ago regarding a temporary transfer. According to De Telegraaf journalist Mike Verweij, Ter Stegen was scheduled to travel on Friday, with differing reports from Italian transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano placing the medical examination on Saturday. Once physical checks are successfully completed, the player will officially sign his contract.

Resolving the Fiscale Kwestie

The finalization of the deal experienced weeks of delays due to a complex tax issue between the player and the Catalan club. Het Parool reports that Ter Stegen earns approximately twenty million euros annually at Barcelona, a wage bill Ajax cannot shoulder independently. Under the agreed terms, Barcelona will cover ninety percent of the salary costs.

The negotiations centered on preventing a “double taxation” assessment. Because Ter Stegen will spend more than half the year residing in the Netherlands, his primary tax obligation shifts there. However, by maintaining his residence in Castelldefels near Barcelona, regulatory discussions were required to clear potential Spanish tax claims for the duration of the loan.

Immediate Squad Integration for European Competitions

Technical director Jordi Cruijff maintained confidence throughout the prolonged tax negotiations that the transfer would proceed. Verweij notes that Ter Stegen is expected to be registered with UEFA in time to feature in the third qualifying round of the Conference League against Shelbourne FC. The Dutch club hosts the first leg at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Thursday, August 6, followed by the return match in Dublin on August 13.

Alongside the German goalkeeper, Ajax recently secured Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Arokodare’s immediate availability depends on the finalization of his work permit, with both players requiring registration with UEFA.

Broader Squad Overhaul Under Technical Direction

The arrival of Ter Stegen adds to an active transfer window for Ajax under Cruijff, who has also brought in Daley Blind, Caio Henrique, and Marcos Leonardo. Despite these additions, squad building remains ongoing. Verweij reports that securing a defensive midfielder for the number six position is the top priority, with former player Edson Álvarez prominently in view. Depending on potential outgoing transfers, the club may also pursue a number eight and an additional right winger.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Marc-André ter Stegen officially join Ajax?

Ter Stegen is scheduled to travel to Amsterdam for his medical examination and contract signing this weekend, pending final clearance of physical checks.

Who is paying Ter Stegen’s wages during the loan?

FC Barcelona will cover ninety percent of the goalkeeper’s reported twenty million euro annual salary, with Ajax paying the remaining portion.

Will Ter Stegen be eligible to play in Europe?

Yes, provided he is registered with UEFA in time, he is expected to be available for the Conference League matches against Shelbourne FC.

What are Ajax’s next targets in the transfer market?

According to reports from Mike Verweij, securing a player for the number six position—with Edson Álvarez targeted—is the club’s highest remaining priority.