Barcelona is heading into the final stretch of preseason with more problems off the field than on it. With one week left before La Liga kicks off, the club still needs to register several players who don't have an official spot. The situation is urgent, and the board is working to free up salary cap space as soon as possible.
In this context, departures have become the main way to gain some leeway. The departure of Iñigo Martínez seemed to be an isolated move, but everything suggests he won't be leaving alone. A second footballer will join the list of departures in the coming hours.
The turn in the goal
Barça's goal is in turmoil: the plan was to extend Ter Stegen's absence and cover it with Joan García. However, the German rejected this option, complicating the plans. With García and Wojciech Szczesny on the radar, Iñaki Peña's presence is losing importance in the squad.
The young goalkeeper, a homegrown player with experience in important matches, is on his way out. His next destination is already on the table: Como 1907, the Italian club where Cesc Fàbregas acts as the mastermind behind signings.
Como and the opportunity
Como, newly promoted to Serie A, is looking to strengthen with top-level players who can bring experience and leadership. The arrival of Iñigo Martínez, who is set for Saudi Arabia, isn't directly linked to the Italian club, but Peña's move is.
Cesc Fàbregas knows Barça's youth system well and knows that Iñaki Peña is a reliable goalkeeper, good with the ball at his feet and with character. The interest is strong, and talks are progressing, although everything depends on the club registering its new goalkeepers first. If that happens, Peña's transfer or loan could be finalized quickly.
A market that doesn't let up
Barça is experiencing a transfer market in which every decision has an immediate effect. The departure of two players with considerable salaries would free up space to register key pieces before the league starts. Hansi, meanwhile, will have to reshape his squad if this double departure is confirmed.
In the offices at Camp Nou, the feeling is that there's no room for hesitation. The competition is just around the corner and La Liga won't grant extensions. Iñigo Martínez and Iñaki Peña will say goodbye almost at the same time, opening a new chapter and giving Barça the financial relief it needs.
Como is rubbing its hands at the chance to sign the goalkeeper, trained in a great youth system and with much to offer. A move that could give them security between the posts and, at the same time, make a splash in the Italian market.