Of all the positions in Barcelona, the position most under threat recently is the goalkeepers. The position that was once considered the most solid in the Catalan side is now more shaken than ever.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s decline put his position in jeopardy, in addition, Neto’s inability to compete with the German for a starting point and exclusion from play fueled rumors of his departure in January.
Sudden changes in their situation, the same can be said of Inaki Pena, although the youngster was due to move on loan in January, Neto’s possible departure has caused him to put his transfer on hold.
However, the media is reporting news that brings more to the picture. Barcelona are close to completing the signing of Stole Dimitrievski from Rayo Vallecano and have already reached an agreement.
The Macedonian goalkeeper has been a discovery for Vallecano and has been seen as the best goalkeeper in the league this season.
Over 17 league starts, he made nearly three saves per game. Moreover, he tops the league charts in terms of total saves this season. Dimitrievski has kept six clean sheets in this period, with only one foul resulting in a shot.
Furthermore, it tops the chart for (goals expected after a shot minus goals allowed) the most advanced statistic for measuring shot stops with a score of +6.1.
Meanwhile, Ter Stegen is 32nd in the league at -2.1.
He won’t be signed to the bench like Neto’s. His arrival will put Ter Stegen under heavy pressure to perform, as Dimitrievski is able to replace the German.
The arrival of the 28-year-old could mean the confirmed departures of Neto and Inaki Pena, both of whom are looking for more playing time. However, a move could be what will shape Barcelona’s season.