Barcelona evaluates third‑choice keeper as Ter Stegen loan to Ajax ties salary to appearances

FC Barcelona is set to decide on its third‑choice goalkeeper for the upcoming season. With Diego Kochen loaned to Lyngby, Inaki Pena transferred to Panathinaikos, and Ander Astralaga leaving after his contract expired, the club is weighing two promising academy prospects: 18‑year‑old Iker Rodriguez and 19‑year‑old Eder Aller. Both have been involved with the first‑team squad, and a final decision is expected during preseason.

At the same time, veteran goalkeeper Marc Ter Stegen is moving to Ajax on a season‑long loan. Barcelona will cover the bulk of the transfer fee, but Ajax will only pay his salary for the matches he actually plays. This conditional clause was introduced after a similar loan to Girona resulted in a fixed payment despite the player not featuring.