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La Liga president Javier Tebas has provided some clarity on whether Barcelona can sign a new player, despite not being in a transfer window. This comes after club captain and number one goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen endured a serious injury during their 5-1 win over Villarreal on September 22.
The goalkeeper had come out of his goal to claim a corner in the area, but he landed rather awkwardly, which led to medical personnel rushing to the pitch to help him. Ter Stegen had to be stretchered off the pitch, as he was unable to walk, due to the serious injury to his right knee.
There is a big chance that the goalkeeper will be unavailable for the rest of the season, leading to questions about needing another option urgently. Although the transfer window is currently closed, Barcelona may be able to get another goalkeeper, but on a free transfer.
According to SPORT, the club are already reviewing their options, while La Liga president Javier Tebas has clarified the position of the league. The chief explained on the Europa Forum that Barca could sign a free agent (via Forbes):
"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.
"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."
This also raised questions about if the club would even be able to afford a new signing, due to their highly publicized financial struggles. However, Tebas revealed that their economic situation had notably improved, adding:
"It's better than two years ago and it will be better in two years' time."
Barcelona will hope they can make a new signing in due course. However, they could also trust their second goalkeeper Inaki Pena to continue the season in Ter Stegen's absence.
Barcelona release statement on Ter Stegen injury
Barcelona have released a statement regarding the injury to their goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The Blaugrana revealed that the German shot-stopper would have to undergo surgery, following tests:
"Tests carried out on the first team player, Marc[-Andre] ter Stegen confirm that he has a complete rupture in the patella tendon in his right knee. On Monday afternoon he will undergo a surgical process and once complete a new update will be released."
In the meantime, Barcelona sit at the top of La Liga with a four-point gap separating them from Real Madrid in 2nd place. The Blaugrana have won six games in a row, scoring 22 goals, a much better return than any other club in the Spanish top-flight.
They will hope they can continue this fine form, despite losing the 32-year-old goalkeeper to what could be a long-term return to fitness.
