Rumors suggesting Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona shot-stopper Marc-Andre ter Stegen will soon be put to rest as recent reports state that the German goalkeeper is nearing a long-term contract extension with the Spanish giants. A new five-year deal will be agreed upon by FC Barcelona and Ter Stegen, according to reports.
The 28-year old goalkeeper had courted serious interest from the Blues in recent weeks. Previous speculation had even claimed that Chelsea FC boss Frank Lampard had opened talks with FC Barcelona over a move for their number one. Lampard is believed to be desperate to sign a new goalkeeper for his side to replace Kepa Arrizabalaga, who is now an outcast at Stamford Bridge.
However, with reports indicating Ter Stegen’s desire to stay at Nou Camp, the Blues will now shift their focus towards other transfer targets. Ajax’s Andre Onana and Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak are two players being pursued relentlessly by the West London based English outfit.
Ter Stegen’s current deal with FC Barcelona had a validity of only two further years. This had caused speculation that the Blues might attempt to sign the German international this summer to solve their goalkeeping crisis. However, the 28-year old shot-stopper’s initial talks with the Catalan club had failed due to wage demand issues.
With the obstacles now being resolved in contractual negotiations between the two parties, the German is set to extend his six-year stint at Nou Camp further.
