Barcelona to register Joan García using Ter Stegen’s salary cap space
Barcelona plan to use Marc-André ter Stegen’s absence to unlock registration for goalkeeper Joan García.
Club president Joan Laporta has confirmed that the German keeper’s long-term injury opens a financial path for registering new players, amid Barcelona’s ongoing salary cap struggles under La Liga’s rules.
Ter Stegen will miss the opening months of the 2025/26 season following back surgery, which significantly reduces his wage burden. Laporta stated this would be “the most direct route” to register Espanyol’s Joan García, who is expected to join as a backup or competition for Iñaki Peña. This comes after La Liga blocked several potential registrations due to financial constraints, including that of Nico Williams and Marcus Rashford.
The club’s maneuver is part of a wider financial chess game. Barcelona are trying to balance incoming talent with strict 1:1 registration limits. Rumors persist that players like Ronald Araújo or Andreas Christensen might be sold if Barça fails to clear further wage space. Laporta also mentioned that they are still exploring “other mechanisms” if García’s registration hits a dead end.
“Ter Stegen’s injury provides the most straightforward path to register Joan García. We’re acting within La Liga’s framework.”
This tactical use of the injury list may help Barcelona stabilize their summer market, but it also raises long-term concerns over depth and planning. With Champions League group stage starting in September, the club needs clarity on its final squad setup. Laporta’s choices in August could define the team’s early momentum in 2025/26.
