La Liga President reveals Barcelona are clear to sign Ter Stegen's replacement

La Liga President Javier Tebas confirmed that FC Barcelona can sign a replacement for injured goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen outside the transfer window, provided they adhere to financial fair play rules, leaving the club with a crucial decision.

In Short

• Javier Tebas confirmed Barcelona could replace Ter Stegen outside window
• Barcelona maintained their perfect start despite Ter Stegen's injury setback
• Ter Stegen's injury will require surgery, and he will be out for long

La Liga President Javier Tebas has revealed that FC Barcelona are permitted to bring in a replacement for the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen outside of the transfer window, as long as they comply with financial fair play (FFP) regulations. Ter Stegen, Barcelona’s captain, is potentially sidelined for the remainder of the season after suffering a tendon injury in his right leg during the club's La Liga clash against Villarreal on September 22.

Tebas stated that Barcelona must find a replacement with a salary cap equal to or lower than Ter Stegen's in order to stay within FFP constraints. This adds a significant challenge, given Barcelona’s ongoing struggles with FFP and player registration. Barcelona now faces the dilemma of whether to sign a new goalkeeper or rely on their second-choice option, Iñaki Peña, who stepped in for Ter Stegen during the Villarreal match.

While signing a replacement is allowed, it must adhere to La Liga’s financial guidelines, and Tebas made it clear that the decision ultimately rests with the club.

"The regulations allow the incorporation of a player with the same amount [of salary] as the long-term injured [player]. It can incorporate a player, whether it is a goalkeeper or not," Tebas told reporters.

"There is no leeway, [even though] it is interesting to say it to discredit La Liga. Fair Play professionals do not have a wide sleeve with Barca or Racing Santander, there are rules that are for everyone. They are complicated to understand, but they are for everyone," Tebas added.

The injury to Ter Stegen compounds Barcelona’s growing list of absentees, with a total of eight players currently sidelined. In addition to their captain, key players such as Gavi, Andreas Christensen, Frenkie de Jong, Ronald Araºjo, and Fermin L³pez are also undergoing treatment.

Barcelona continued their winning streak in La Liga with a commanding 5-1 victory over Villarreal, but the triumph was overshadowed by Ter Stegen’s injury. The club has already been linked with possible replacements, including former Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas and recently retired Wojciech Szczesny.

The Blaugrana's next steps will likely depend on their confidence in Peña or their ability to find an affordable, experienced replacement.