Garcia, the promising 24-year-old Espanyol shot-stopper, is expected to join the Catalan giants imminently. Though the transfer has not yet been formally announced, the club is preparing to activate the €25 million (£21m/$28m) release clause that will bring Garcia to Camp Nou for the next five years. In addition to the expected arrival of Garcia, Barcelona have also moved to extend the contract of Szczesny. Now, the repercussions are being felt by Ter Stegen.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
According to Ter Stegen has not been informed of any plans that would see him demoted or moved on. Nevertheless, there is a growing sense of betrayal and frustration at the silence from the club's hierarchy. Sources close to the goalkeeper have described the situation as a "campaign" aimed at marginalising him without direct communication. Despite remaining calm publicly and focusing on international duty with Germany, the veteran keeper is reportedly determined to demand clarity.
WHAT TER STEGEN SAID
Before facing Portugal in the Nations League, Ter Stegen brushed aside all reports of discontent and told : "No one has told me about this, but I'm not worried. I know I'm going to be in Barcelona next year."
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Once his national team obligations are concluded, he is expected to seek direct talks with Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick and the club's sporting director, Deco. Flick was in attendance during Germany's match in Munich and is likely to be the first person Ter Stegen addresses in his bid to understand his role at the club.