Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is taking big strides as the club prepares for the upcoming season. His focus centers on both strengthening the offensive lineup and managing player departures—a balancing act not easily accomplished. Among those who might leave is goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, who has become frustrated with his limited opportunities after the arrival of Wojciech Szczęsny.
Peña, originally seen as Marc-André ter Stegen’s replacement due to the star goalkeeper's knee injury earlier this season, has watched his prospects diminish with Szczęsny’s comeback out of retirement. The situation is pressing, as Peña is eager to find playing time at another club.
Interest from Betis and Celta de Vigo has emerged, with both La Liga teams eyeing him as they look to strengthen their respective squads. Under Manuel Pellegrini, Betis would welcome Peña as potential reinforcement, but complications arise with Álvaro Valles’ imminent signing from UD Las Palmas, casting doubt on Peña’s chances of joining the verdiblanco side.
Meanwhile, Celta de Vigo is equally motivated to bolster their squad, particularly with Vicente Guaita, who is nearing the end of his career at 38, potentially not renewing his contract. This presents Peña with the chance to prove himself as the starting goalkeeper—a role he is eager to seize.
Negotiations between Barcelona and Celta de Vigo are reportedly progressing well. Deco, recognizing the need to streamline Barcelona's finances and reduce the overall wage bill, supports Peña’s sale. Celta de Vigo has put forth an offer of around €10 million for the young goalkeeper, which Deco seems inclined to accept.
For Peña, moving to Celta could be the fresh start he needs, offering him the opportunity to establish himself as key player on the pitch. Conversely, Celta sees Peña not just as a promising young talent but as someone who could significantly fortify their goalkeeping position as they set their ambitions on competing once again at European levels.
Overall, Deco’s calculated approach reflects Barcelona’s current economic challenges and their urgent need to align player movements with financial stability. Should the agreement come to fruition, it would generate much-needed revenue for Barcelona, enabling Deco to explore reinforcements in other areas of the squad. With the deadline looming, both clubs and Peña have their eyes trained on the next steps as the summer transfer season draws nearer.
