Barcelona approach retired Premier League star to replace key player who is out for the season with devastating injury
New reports have revealed that Barcelona have made a shock approach for a retired player to try and bring them to the club to replace Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
On Sunday, it was reported that Ter Stegen would face months on the sidelines after sustaining a knee injury.
In his absence Inaki Pena is expected to play, despite him failing to impress when he has previously filled in for Barcelona.
But now, it has been reported that the La Liga giants are hoping to bring a top class goalkeeper out of retirement to replace the injured German keeper.
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Polish journalist Tomasz Wlodarczyk confirmed that Barcelona are hoping to sign Wojciech Szczesny, writing: "According to our information, Barcelona has indeed made contact with the Pole. However, it is too early to say what the outcome of these talks will be.
"The case is open. Szczesny is certainly at least considering the possibility of returning to the game. It remains to wait and see how the situation develops."
With the summer transfer window closed and the next window not opening until January 1, Barcelona are forced to look at free agents if they want to bring a replacement goalkeeper in imminently.
Of the available players, Szczesny reportedly stands out to the Spanish side as the ideal option.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano later confirmed the report, writing on X: "Wojciech Szczesny’s agents CAA Stellar have been approached by Barcelona to discuss potential terms.
"Szczesny announced his retirement this summer but Barca want to understand his situation.
"Keylor Navas and one more candidate remain in the list."
Polish keeper Szczesny announced his retirement on August 27 after he mutually agreed to terminate his contract with Juventus and departed as a free agent.
The 34-year-old spent seven years with the Serie A side, making 252 appearances for the club.
Szczesny is also regarded as a club legend at Premier League side Arsenal, who he made 181 appearances for across eight years in the senior team, having graduated from the academy.
"I gave the game 18 years of my life, every day, without excuses," said Szczesny when announcing his retirement.
"Today, though my body still feels ready for challenges, my heart is not there anymore. I feel that right now it is time to give all of my attention to my family."
Ben McCrum