Barcelona appear to be on the verge of making a definite move about Inaki Pena’s future, according to SPORT.
Valencia and Celta Vigo are constantly monitoring the situation, since the club is seriously considering canceling the goalkeeper’s contract in order to remove his pay from the books.
At the age of 26, Pena finds himself at a crossroads. Despite being viewed as a bright academy product with the potential to become a long-term backup or even successor to Marc-Andreé ter Stegen, his career has been anything but steady.
Despite stepping up brilliantly during Ter Stegen’s injured period last season, the signing of Wojciech Szczesny and the pursuit of Joan Garcia have virtually ended his time at the Camp Nou.
Exit is imminent
Barcelona’s interest in Garcia made it plain that Pena was not in Hansi Flick’s plans. With only one year remaining on his contract, the club is loath to approve a loan arrangement, knowing he will go for free next summer.
As a result, the club is now considering terminating his contract and paying a portion of his outstanding wages.
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Clubs such as Valencia and Celta are interested in signing Pena, but they cannot afford his present salary.
They are waiting for Barcelona to act first and legally release him before making any moves. This scenario fits them, especially if the Blaugrana are willing to shoulder some of the financial load to allow his go.
Pena, for his part, is attempting to make sense of a turbulent year. The Spanish shot-stopper has had a rollercoaster season, transitioning from backup to starter during Ter Stegen’s absence and now being phased out completely.
He understands that his future lay elsewhere, yet he is unwilling to forego what he is contractually obligated to do.
Barcelona, on the other hand, is becoming increasingly agitated and is anticipated to start negotiations with his agents soon about contract termination.
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