Barcelona confirm Marc-Andre ter Stegen operation: How long will the German goalkeeper be out?

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has confirmed that he will undergo an operation to address a back problem.

The Germany international's future has been the subject of much speculation this summer, as the Catalan giants have brought in Joan Garcia from Espanyol to seemingly be their number one goalkeeper next season.

There has been a host of transfer talk surrounding Ter Stegen, but it then came to light that the 33-year-old was facing an operation on a back problem which has caused him pain in recent weeks.

The experienced goalkeeper has now confirmed that the procedure will indeed take place, and he is expected to be on the sidelines for approximately three months recovering from the operation.

Barca goalkeeper Ter Stegen confirms back operation

"Dear Culers, I wear the colours and jersey of FC Barcelona with great pride, whether on or off the pitch, in moments of success and in difficult times," he posted on social media.

"Today is a personally difficult day for me. Physically and athletically, I feel in very good shape, although unfortunately I am not free from pain. After intensive discussions with the FC Barcelona medical team and external experts, the quickest and safest way for me to fully recover is through back surgery.

"After my last operation on my back, I returned to the pitch after 66 days - almost two months; this time, the doctors believe about three months will be necessary as a precaution, to avoid any risks.

"Emotionally, it hurts a lot not being able to support the team during this time. Fortunately, the rehabilitation is manageable and the road back is clear. I will keep you updated on my recovery and I sincerely want to thank you all, dear Culers, for always being by my side. Don’t worry - I’ll be back! Yours, Marc."

Barcelona release statement after Ter Stegen surgery is confirmed

Barcelona have also released a statement of their own, with the operation set to take place next week.

“First-team player Marc ter Stegen will undergo further surgery next week to address his lower back problems," said the La Liga champions.

“The procedure will once again be carried out by Dr Amelie Leglise under the supervision of the club’s Medical Services, at the Sports Clinic Bordeaux Merignac. A new medical update will be issued after the procedure.”

Ter Stegen was restricted to just nine appearances in all competitions last season after suffering a serious knee injury.

The transfer speculation surrounding the experienced goalkeeper will now be on hold until January, and his absence will open the door for Garcia to nail down the starting role between the sticks.