Guardiola Eyes Barcelona Ter Stegen as Ederson Exit Rumours Intensify

Could Marc-Andre ter Stegen Replace Ederson at Man City?

As the transfer window heats up, speculation continues to swirl around Manchester City’s goalkeeping department, with reports suggesting that Pep Guardiola is considering a bold move for Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The possible arrival of the German international would mark a significant shake-up in the reigning Premier League champions’ squad—especially amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of long-time No.1 Ederson.

While City remain tight-lipped, the links between Guardiola and his former club Barcelona make this rumour all the more intriguing. With ‘tension’ reportedly brewing in Catalunya and Ter Stegen seemingly sliding down the Camp Nou pecking order, the stars may be aligning for a surprising transfer reunion.

Ederson’s Time at the Etihad: Coming to an End?

Ederson has been one of Guardiola’s most trusted lieutenants since arriving in Manchester back in 2017 from Benfica. His calm presence, laser-guided distribution, and quick reflexes played a vital role in City’s domestic dominance and their historic treble-winning campaign in 2022-23.

But as football so often shows, nothing lasts forever.

Now 31 and having already collected nearly every major honour available to him at club level, Ederson is believed to be exploring options abroad. Reports in recent weeks have linked the Brazil international with lucrative moves to both the Saudi Pro League and Turkish giants Galatasaray. While no deal appears imminent, there is growing belief that the shot-stopper might be ready for a fresh challenge after eight decorated seasons in England.

City are not panicking—far from it—but there’s an understanding within the club that preparations must begin in case Ederson does move on this summer.

Ter Stegen’s Situation at Barcelona

Ederson Manchester City 2024-25

Across the continent in Catalonia, things are shifting as well. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, once the undisputed No.1 for Barcelona and still among the best technical goalkeepers in the world, finds himself in unfamiliar territory.

According to Spanish outlet AS, Barcelona are now considering letting the German leave. A combination of high wages, a crowded goalkeeping department, and changing managerial preferences under new boss Hansi Flick have complicated Ter Stegen’s standing at the club.

Barça have added Joan Garcia from Espanyol, and veteran Wojciech Szczesny has emerged as the preferred starter for the moment. The shift has reportedly left Ter Stegen frustrated, and “tension” between him and club hierarchy is said to be mounting. For Barcelona, eager to offload salaries and balance their books amid long-running financial difficulties, a move for the German could be seen as a necessary sacrifice.

Guardiola’s Connection and Why Ter Stegen Makes Sense

Marc-Andre ter Stegen Germany barcelona

From a City perspective, Ter Stegen would be far from a panic buy. Guardiola knows the Bundesliga-born keeper well, and the 32-year-old’s experience, ball-playing ability, and composure would fit seamlessly into City’s system. In many ways, he shares similar traits with Ederson: excellent in one-on-one situations, commanding in the box, and capable of initiating attacks from deep.

Guardiola has a long history of trusting goalkeepers who are as skilled with their feet as they are with their hands. And if City want to avoid any transitional turbulence, landing a top-tier keeper like Ter Stegen—who already plays a possession-based style—would help maintain tactical continuity.

It’s also worth noting that Ter Stegen is eyeing a starting role with Germany at the 2026 World Cup. With Manuel Neuer still hanging around and other challengers emerging, the former Borussia Mönchengladbach keeper cannot afford to sit on the bench. A move to City, where trophies and high-level competition are guaranteed, could reinvigorate his international ambitions.

Galatasaray Also in the Mix

Of course, City are not alone in their interest. Turkish champions Galatasaray are reportedly keeping a close eye on Ter Stegen’s situation and are said to be keen on making a cut-price move. The appeal of Istanbul, both as a city and a footballing hub, continues to grow, especially for players who want regular minutes and a passionate fanbase.

But the question remains—can Galatasaray offer the same sporting project and financial package as Manchester City?

It seems unlikely. While the Turkish club can offer regular starts and Champions League football, the level of competition, infrastructure, and long-term vision at City still stands apart. If Ter Stegen has a genuine desire to keep performing at the highest level and win more major silverware, the Premier League champions would be a hard proposition to turn down.

What Happens Next?

With the summer transfer window well underway, both Ederson’s future and Ter Stegen’s situation are likely to evolve quickly. Barcelona, facing pressure to trim their wage bill, may find themselves willing to negotiate a modest fee. If City receive a solid offer for Ederson—or if the Brazilian formally asks to leave—expect Guardiola to act swiftly.

It would be a significant change at the Etihad, but not an uncharacteristic one. City’s recruitment model has long been built on succession planning. Just as they moved on from Joe Hart when Guardiola first arrived, and later from club legends like Sergio Agüero and Vincent Kompany, the idea of rotating key personnel is not new.

The big question is whether Ter Stegen, a symbol of Barcelona’s modern era, is truly ready for a new adventure. And if so, is Manchester his next destination?

Final Thoughts: Smart Planning or Risky Move?

Replacing Ederson would be no easy task. His chemistry with City’s back line, comfort in Guardiola’s high line system, and cool-headed leadership have made him indispensable. But if the Brazilian decides to move on, there are few better replacements than Ter Stegen—especially if City can land him at a cut price due to Barça’s financial pressure.

It’s still early days in this potential transfer story, but all signs point to a situation that could escalate quickly. Guardiola is known for acting decisively, and if he believes Ter Stegen is the man to take City into their next chapter, don’t be surprised if the German finds himself in sky blue sooner rather than later.

One thing is for certain: the goalkeeper merry-go-round is spinning again, and all eyes will be on Manchester and Barcelona in the coming