Netminder Marc-Andre ter Stegen is playing down rumors that he is headed to Barcelona next summer.
The goaltender, who currently plays for German side Borussia Moenchengladbach, has been constantly rumored as Barcelona's choice to replace Victor Valdes between the pipes.
According to ESPN, there were rumors that the player and team were close to signing a contract, but both ter Stegen and his agent have denied the rumor.
"The state of play remains the same: I am in talks with Borussia Moenchengladbach," ter Stegen said, according to ESPN. "I can't stop the speculation. What is important to me that I am able to focus on my performances on the pitch, and those rumors not affect them."
He did note that he was considering all of his options and planned to make a decision before the season came to a close.
"I'd like to think I have done a good job in doing that so far. The club has my back, I am thankful for that," he added. "I have never ruled out signing a new deal here. This story will not go until the summer, that I can say...I want to take my time and make the right decision."
Barcelona is actively looking for a goaltender to replace Valdes who has declared on numerous occasions that he is ready to leave his current club and seek out new adventures in another country. Valdes recently contacted AS Monaco, confirming his interest in the French club.
Other rumored targets for Barcelona include Iker Casillas, David De Gea and Fraser Forster.
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