Monaco emerge as a potential escape route for Barcelona and Ter Stegen

With the arrival of Joan García and Wojciech Szczesny's two-season contract renewal, Marc-André ter Stegen appears to be surplus to requirements at Barcelona. The German goalkeeper is keen to stay and fight for his place, but the club are urging him to seek a new destination if he desires regular playing time ahead of the World Cup.

Despite the Barcelona captain's desire to remain, the prospect of being sidelined before what could be his final World Cup means a move, though complicated, is not entirely out of the question. Galatasaray have reportedly expressed strong interest in his services, but now a far more appealing option for the German has emerged.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Monaco, who recently signed his former teammate Ansu Fati, are keen to sign Ter Stegen. The Monegasques had previously shown some interest in the 'keeper, though his representatives initially dismissed the idea. Now, however, circumstances may have changed, and the team from the Louis II stadium are now receptive to the idea.

With staying at Barcelona appearing increasingly unlikely, Monaco could be an ideal destination for Ter Stegen, allowing him to remain in close proximity to Barcelona, where he has been based since his arrival in the summer of 2014.

The possibility exists, though Ter Stegen still needs to make the decision to bring an end to his time at the club, a move that former colleagues like René Adler are advocating.

"He cannot afford to be without playing time, especially given his recent knee operation. Every match, every training session, every minute between the posts is crucial for regaining the physical and mental security he needs. If a genuine opportunity arises at a club where he can play regularly, particularly in a World Cup year, I am convinced he will seize it. He must. Should he not play, he risks losing his national team spot and jeopardising a World Cup that could be his defining moment," the former German 'keeper told Sky Sport.

Adler also delivered scathing criticism of Barcelona's handling of Ter Stegen's situation. "It's a brutal blow to a loyal captain," he stated.

"He has always stood by the club, even during difficult periods and when personal sacrifices were requested. Now, as he returns from a complicated injury, they are not even affording him the opportunity to fight for his place. They're bringing in a competitor. We know how these mechanisms operate; they're effectively pushing him out of the club. Such situations are not new at Barcelona. This is not the first time a veteran has been treated in this manner."