The transfer market is moving quickly, and a new deal is taking shape between Real Betis and FC Barcelona. Manuel Pellegrini, Betis's coach, has requested that Barça sign a Barça player whose future at Camp Nou looks complicated.
A piece on the tightrope at Barça
Iñaki Peña's future at Barcelona is in doubt. The arrival of Joan Garcia, a young goalkeeper with great potential, has caused Peña to lose importance in the squad. The club seems determined to facilitate the departure of the Alicante-born goalkeeper, whose contract ends in one year.
Peña has shown commitment and professionalism during his time at Barça. However, with the emergence of new goalkeepers and the intention to renew the goalkeeping position, his place has been significantly reduced. The club believes Peña could continue his career at another team, where he could have more opportunities to play.
The complicated scenario of Ter Stegen and the blaugrana goal
Barça's goal is undergoing a complete restructuring, and Ter Stegen's name remains a mystery. Although he has two more years on his contract and a high salary, the German doesn't seem to have any intention of leaving for now. This complicates the board's plans, which wants to bet on Joan Garcia and the signing of Szczesny as the starting pair.
In addition, Diego Kochen is set to be the alternative from the reserve team. With this new structure, Peña is relegated and leaving becomes the most logical option for all parties. Barça wants to prevent the goalkeeper from stagnating and is looking for a dignified and positive exit for him.
Betis, an attractive destination but with a lot of competition
Real Betis is one of the clubs that has shown the most interest in Peña. Pellegrini, a coach with a lot of experience, has expressly requested his signing from Hansi Flick. Betis has previously trusted players from Barcelona, such as Abde or Vitor Roque, and now wants to do the same with the goalkeeper.
However, Betis doesn't offer an easy path; Álvaro Valles, the starting goalkeeper, is a strong competitor with experience in the team. Peña will have to prove his quality to earn the spot and get minutes. The proposal is attractive: playing for a competitive club with ambitions in La Liga and European competitions.
Other options and the relationship between Barça and Betis
Not only Betis has knocked on Peña's door. Celta de Vigo has also shown interest, as well as several foreign teams that are monitoring the goalkeeper's situation. Peña must calmly decide which project is best for his career.
Meanwhile, Barcelona and Betis keep a fluid relationship and good communication. This will make negotiations easier, as has happened on previous occasions. Peña's departure could be finalized soon, in a deal that benefits all parties: the player, Barça, and Betis.