Barcelona are expected to undergo another important squad reshuffle in the summer, and the goalkeeping department is shaping up to be one of the biggest areas of change.
While the club appear satisfied with some of their current options, others no longer seem to have a clear place in the long-term project being prepared by Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco.
That situation has now attracted the attention of Ajax.
According to information from Mundo Deportivo, the Dutch giants are currently exploring the market for an experienced goalkeeper and have identified both Ter Stegen and Pena as possible options.
The interest comes at a moment when neither goalkeeper appears guaranteed a future at Barcelona beyond this season.
Ajax’s interest is being driven heavily by technical director Jordi Cruyff, who wants to bring in a reliable and high-level presence between the posts.
Notably, what further strengthens the possibility of a move is Ajax’s expected managerial change.
Michel, currently in charge of Girona, is being strongly linked with the Ajax job, and that could become an important detail, especially considering the positive impression Ter Stegen made during his short spell away from Barcelona before suffering an injury setback.
Barcelona themselves are not expected to stand in the way of negotiations.
The club would ideally prefer permanent transfers, although fresh loan moves are also being considered as alternative solutions.
The developments surrounding Ter Stegen and Pena say a lot about how Barcelona are preparing for the future.
Despite both goalkeepers once being viewed as important squad figures, the hierarchy now appears ready to move in a completely different direction.
Barcelona already have Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny positioned ahead in the pecking order, while the club are also exploring a possible move for Alex Remiro from Real Sociedad.
That combination leaves very little room for either Ter Stegen or Pena to realistically recover a major role next season.
