Ajax's goalkeeper gap widens as Barcelona loan stalls over tax

Ajax face a pressing need for a first‑choice goalkeeper after the unavailability of their current options for the UEFA Europa Conference League tie on 23 July. The club had counted on a loan of German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen to fill the gap, but the delay has ruled out his integration before the match.

The proposed loan from FC Barcelona to AFC Ajax was built on a consensus that all three parties would share the goalkeeper’s salary and define the loan’s structure. Both clubs and the German goalkeeper initially agreed in principle to these core terms.

Despite that early consensus, reports from Mundo Deportivo state that the deal is still awaiting final approval. The pending authorization means the loan remains unresolved.

The primary hurdle now is a set of tax‑related complications that have not been settled. These administrative issues continue to postpone the completion of the transfer.

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Barcelona maintain that the remaining obstacles lie outside the club’s control and argue that the responsibility rests with the player. They assert that Marc-Andre ter Stegen must resolve the financial and tax details before the loan can be finalised.

Nevertheless, the Catalan side expresses confidence that the move will eventually be completed. Their optimism persists even as paperwork stalls.

Ajax officials admit growing frustration and acknowledge that their patience is not unlimited. While no formal deadline has been set, the Dutch giants are preparing for every possible outcome.

The next step requires Stegen to settle the outstanding tax matters, after which the final green light can be given and the loan authorised.