Barcelona are currently dealing with a complicated situation regarding Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

However, according to a report from AS, it has come to light that a loan move for the club captain is starting to look like the most sensible option.

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The Barcelona squad returned to club duties on Sunday for medical check-ups before the start of pre-season, and the club shared two videos on social media showing the players arriving.

In one of the videos, ter Stegen, who is wanted by Monaco, appeared for just two seconds, smiling briefly for the camera. But behind that small smile lies a much bigger problem that could dominate the headlines in the coming weeks.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick reportedly does not see ter Stegen as part of his plans for next season. However, moving on from the German goalkeeper won’t be easy.

Barcelona need to find a way for Marc-Andre ter Stegen. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

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At 33 years old, and after four surgeries, ter Stegen is no longer attracting the kind of transfer interest he did in the past. In fact, hardly any offers have come in for him this summer.

Ter Stegen’s contract with Barcelona runs until 2028, and the financial side of his deal makes things even more complicated. His salary is one of the highest at the club, so letting him go could ease some of Barça’s financial pressure.

A loan deal would likely be the best solution, both to reduce the wage bill and to avoid creating a difficult atmosphere within the squad.

If no resolution is found soon, Barcelona may be forced to take Ter Stegen on the club’s upcoming Asian tour without giving him any minutes on the pitch.

Unlike other past cases, this is not just about football, as it is also about the club’s economic situation. Both sides now face a difficult few weeks ahead.