As the summer transfer window approaches, FC Barcelona is bracing for significant changes, with goalkeeper Inaki Pena expected to be among the players departing the club. The 24-year-old goalkeeper has fallen out of favor under head coach Hansi Flick, and with his contract running until 2026, a move seems inevitable.
According to journalist Jordi Cardero, Pena is finalizing a switch in representation to AC Talent, just six weeks before the transfer market opens. This agency, led by Arturo Canales, currently represents several Barcelona players, including Pablo Torre and Hector Fort, as well as former stars like Riqui Puig and Gerard Pique.
Pena's decision to change agents comes on the heels of a challenging season. Before the current campaign, he had received multiple offers but opted to stay at Barcelona as the backup to Marc-Andre ter Stegen. However, when Ter Stegen suffered a serious knee injury in September 2024, Pena stepped up as the starting goalkeeper and held that position until Wojciech Szczesny was signed and took over as the undisputed number one at the start of 2025.
With Ter Stegen set to return imminently, Pena's position has become precarious. Under Flick's plans for next season, Pena is not included, and with Szczesny expected to sign a new contract soon, the writing appears to be on the wall for the young keeper. He is likely to become the third-choice goalkeeper, a role that is not sustainable for a player of his caliber.
Barcelona's financial troubles mean that they will be looking to offload players to free up salary space and potentially generate transfer fees. Pena's departure is seen as a necessary step in this process. His previous loan to Galatasaray has sparked interest from the Turkish club, which is reportedly keen on signing him permanently. Additionally, La Liga rivals Real Betis and Celta Vigo have expressed interest in acquiring him to bolster their goalkeeping options for the upcoming season.
As the situation develops, the upcoming summer transfer window is poised to be one of the most pivotal periods in Pena's career. The goalkeeper has shown promise during his time at Barcelona, particularly when he was thrust into the starting role, but the arrival of Szczesny has complicated his future.
Inaki Pena's journey at Barcelona has been a rollercoaster ride. After initially joining the club's famed La Masia academy, he worked his way up through the ranks. His breakthrough came when he was given the opportunity to step in for Ter Stegen, who was sidelined by injury. Pena's performances during this time showcased his potential, earning him a spot as the first-choice keeper.
However, the signing of Szczesny has changed the dynamics within the squad. The Polish international's arrival not only displaced Pena but also indicated Barcelona's intent to strengthen their goalkeeping department. Flick's decision to favor Szczesny as the starter further solidified Pena's uncertain status within the team.
With Barcelona's policy dictating that players entering their final year must either extend their contracts or move on, Pena's situation is becoming increasingly untenable. As he prepares for a summer of change, the goalkeeper's next steps will be crucial in determining his future. Will he remain in Spain, or will he seek a new challenge abroad?
While the transfer window has yet to open, speculation surrounding Pena's future is already heating up. Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching the developments, as the goalkeeper's next move could significantly impact his career trajectory. With clubs like Galatasaray, Real Betis, and Celta Vigo interested, it remains to be seen where Pena will land.
As the clock ticks down to the opening of the summer transfer window, Inaki Pena stands at a crossroads. His decision to switch to AC Talent indicates he is preparing for a significant change, and with the interest from multiple clubs, the coming weeks will be crucial.
Barcelona's summer promises to be busy, with both arrivals and departures on the horizon. As they navigate their financial challenges, freeing up salary space and offloading players like Pena will be key to their strategy. The goalkeeper's impending exit is just one piece of the puzzle in a much larger picture as Barcelona looks to reshape their squad for the future.
