Barcelona is reportedly in discussions with former Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny as they explore options to replace Marc-André ter Stegen.
Ter Stegen ruptured a tendon in his right knee during the weekend’s victory over Villarreal, requiring surgery that is feared to end his season. This injury leaves Inaki Pena as Barcelona’s only senior goalkeeper, with young backups Ander Astralaga and Diego Kochen lacking experience. Consequently, the Catalan club is rumored to be conducting ’emergency’ transfer talks to find a suitable replacement.
Claudio Bravo, who shared goalkeeping duties with Ter Stegen for two years before recently retiring from Real Betis, has also offered his services to the club.
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Polish outlet Meczyki was the first to report that Barcelona has made contact with Szczesny’s camp, and other sources have since confirmed that discussions are underway. However, since talks are still in the early stages, the outcome remains uncertain, although Szczesny is reportedly open to the opportunity.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper had his contract with Juventus mutually terminated over the summer. Instead of seeking a new club, he unexpectedly announced his retirement, stating he no longer felt mentally capable of continuing his playing career.
Szczesny was Juventus’ No. 1 until the end, missing only three Serie A matches last season, indicating he still possesses the quality to start for a top-tier club. He joined Arsenal’s youth ranks at 16 and made 181 appearances for the Gunners before being dropped after a fallout with Arsene Wenger. He later spent two years on loan at Roma before making a permanent move to Juventus in 2017.