Explained: Why Barcelona needed special dispensation to sign free agent Wojciech Szczesny despite long-term Marc-Andre ter Stegen injury

Barcelona captain Ter Stegen suffered an injury to his knee last week while claiming a high ball during the Catalan side's 5-1 win over Villarreal and had to be stretchered off the field in tears. It was later confirmed by medical reports that the German had a complete rupture in the patella tendon in his right knee. As such, Barcelona are now looking to sign a replacement goalkeeper in the form of Wojciech Szczesny but the Catalan side had to get permission from La Liga to ensure the smooth registration of the Poland international.

According to Article 77 of the rulebook set by the RFEF for transfer dealings by La Liga clubs, a club can only register a player outside of the two designated windows if the new signing is to cover for a serious injury in the squad whether the injured individual may not be able to play for at least four months. As per Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona had to send documents regarding Ter Stegen's injury to La Liga, who in turn, forwarded the reports to four expert traumatologists. After carefully reviewing each player's case, the four doctors approved the veracity of the findings and verified Ter Stegen's long-term exclusion. La Liga has now approved Barcelona's addition of a new player.

Barcelona also have another key regulation that they will have to adhere to as Article 77 is only valid within 30 days of the player suffering the injury. Ter Stegen officially picked up his long-term injury on September 22, therefore, Barcelona will have to close their signing of Szczesny before October 22.

Until the Catalan side can officially agree terms with Szczesny and complete his registration, Barcelona will have to contend with Inaki Pena in goal, who hasn't impressed with his skills. Barcelona are in action next when they take on Young Boys in the Champions League on Tuesday, October 1.