Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans identify Marc-Andre ter Stegen replacement, club eyeing Jhon Duran, and more - September 26, 2024
Barcelona secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Getafe at home on Wednesday, September 25, in La Liga. Robert Lewandowski scored the game's only goal in the 19th minute to keep his team's 100% record in the league intact.
Meanwhile, Barca have identified a Polish custodian as the ideal replacement for Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants are interested in Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from September 26, 2024.
Barcelona identify Marc-Andre ter Stegen's replacement
Barcelona have identified former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny as a possible replacement for Marc-Andre ter Stegen, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Catalan giants are looking for a new goalkeeper following the German custodian's unfortunate knee injury, seemingly ruling him out for the season.
Barcelona have moved quickly to identify Szczesny as Ter Stegen's replacement. The Polish goalkeeper decided to hang up his boots following the expiry of his contract with Juventus this summer.
However, the chance to represent Barcelona has apparently convinced the 34-year-old to come out of retirement. Szczesny is a highly experienced campaigner, having also represented Arsenal and AS Roma in his career.
Speaking to SPORT, the Pole hinted that the move to Camp Nou is on the cards.
“I respect Barça’s history very much; they are one of the best clubs in the world. I understand the difficult situation that has been generated after the injury of Marc-Andre Ter Stegen and I think it would be disrespectful on my part not to consider this option,” said Szczesny.
He is likely to have his medicals in the coming days and is expected to be handed a one-year deal.
Barca eyeing Jhon Duran
Barcelona have set their sights on Jhon Duran, according to journalist Ekrem Konur. The Catalans are laying down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski, who is in the twilight of his career.
The 36-year-old has been on fire this season under Hansi Flick, registering seven goals and two assists from eight games across competitions. However, the La Liga giants are already looking for his replacement and have found their man in Duran.
The 20-year-old has scored five times in seven games in all competitions for Aston Villa this season and is also wanted by Arsenal. Duran is under contract at Villa Park until 2028 and the English club wanted €50m to part ways with him this summer.
Given the Colombian's recent form, his price is likely to go up next year.
Lamine Yamal convinced Barcelona not to target Estevao Willian, says Fabrizio Romano
Barcelona ended their pursuit of Estevao Willian due to the emergence of Lamine Yamal, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The highly-rated Brazilian attacker was a wanted man this summer and was also eyed by Barca.
However, the La Liga gaints ultimately decided against a move, and Chelsea won the race for the 17-year-old. Estevao will remain at Palmeira for now and arrive at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2025.
In his column for Caught Offside, Romano backed the Brazilian to become a top player for the Blues.
“Chelsea were one of several clubs interested in Estevao, but in reality all of the top European clubs were very attentive to his situation. He was on Barcelona’s list for example, and they wanted him before Lamine Yamal started to show what an exceptional talent he is," wrote Romano.
"For sure Chelsea believe they’ve signed a top player for the present and future, and one who they believe can play as right winger but also as a number 10,” he added.
Yamal has registered four goals and five assists from eight games across competitions this season.