Wojciech Szczesny pens contract extension with Barcelona and opens door for Marc-Andre Ter Stegen to leave with Chelsea set to battle Monaco for goalkeeper's signature

Szczesny has signed a new contract with Barcelona that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2027. The 35-year-old joined as a free agent in October 2024 and quickly became Hansi Flick’s first-choice after impressing in La Liga and the Champions League. His extension follows Barca’s €25 million (£21.5m/$29m) signing of Joan Garcia from Espanyol.

Ter Stegen has been facing an uncertain future with Barcelona, and those questions have intensified following Garcia’s arrival and Szczesny’s extended stay. The German missed almost the entire 2024/25 season through injury and could be allowed to leave this summer. Chelsea and Monaco are reportedly leading the race to sign him, with Barcelona open to a sale.

Szczesny had announced his retirement following his Juventus exit, but came out of it after just two months to sign for Barcelona. He displaced Inaki Pena midway through the season, who had taken over the reins from Ter Stegen, and went on to make 30 appearances, solidifying himself as the club’s No. 1. His consistent performances earned the trust of Flick and sealed his contract renewal.

With Szczesny and Garcia in place, Barcelona are preparing for a future without Ter Stegen. The German international is expected to decide on his next move soon, as Chelsea and Monaco prepare offers. Meanwhile, Szczesny will likely enter the new season as Barcelona's backup to Garcia.