Barcelona transfer news: Catalan giants 'agree deal' for Ter Stegen replacement

The speculation surrounding Szczesny's future has gathered pace over the last few hours, with Barcelona said to have identified him as their number one replacement for Ter Stegen, who is out for the remainder of the season with the serious knee injury that he suffered against Villarreal.

Inaki Pena will start Thursday's La Liga game against Getafe, but the Spaniard will seemingly soon have competition from Szczesny.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a deal is in place for the former Poland international to join the La Liga leaders on a contract for the rest of the season.

Romano claims that medical examinations will take place 'in the next days', with a contract already being agreed between the two parties.

Szczesny 'set' for Barcelona move

In an interview with SPORT on Wednesday, Szczesny said that "it would be disrespectful" if he did not consider making the move to Barcelona, having been approached by the club.

"I respect Barca'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."

Szczesny started his professional career with Arsenal in 2009, making 181 appearances for the Gunners, including 132 Premier League outings, before moving to Juventus in 2017.

The goalkeeper made 252 appearances for the Old Lady, winning three Serie A titles and three Coppa Italia trophies during a successful spell.

Is the move to Barcelona straightforward?

Szczesny made 35 appearances for Juventus last season, but his contract was mutually terminated over the summer, with the goalkeeper set to retire.

He was allegedly paid around €6m (£5m) as part of his departure, and it is being reported that the stopper could have to repay a third of that if he returns to the field.

As a result, there are seemingly some details which need to be addressed before a move can be completed, but he is now widely expected to join Barcelona on a deal until the end of the season.

Szczesny, who will allegedly be paid around €3m (£2.5m) for his efforts this term, is unlikely to be available for selection until Barcelona's first game after the October international break against Sevilla.