Iñaki Peña's future at Barça is clearer than ever. He already knows he won't continue in Flick's project. The German coach made his position clear as soon as Ter Stegen got injured last season.
Instead of trusting Iñaki Peña, he chose to look for alternatives outside the locker room. The signing of Szczęsny arrived, who was 34 years old and had retired. This move made it clear that the Alicante goalkeeper wasn't part of his plans.
Iñaki Peña knows he won't continue at Barça after Flick's decision
From that point on, everything seemed to indicate that his departure would be imminent. He doesn't have a place in the new era that begins with Flick in charge. He himself isn't willing to keep waiting for an opportunity that never comes.
Both Barça and Iñaki Peña himself agree to part ways. However, in recent weeks a disagreement has arisen that has complicated the process.
Barça demands 10 million for Iñaki Peña and the market doesn't respond
To finalize his departure, Barça has set an asking price: 10 million euros. The figure has surprised many of the clubs interested in the goalkeeper. Sevilla, Girona, Celta, Galatasaray, and Valencia have shown interest, but none have wanted to pay that much.
In this situation, Iñaki Peña has asked the board for explanations. He doesn't understand why they don't make his departure easier after so many years of waiting.
Iñaki Peña pushes for an exit and Barça keeps its position
Meanwhile, Barça keeps firm in its financial approach. It believes Iñaki Peña has enough quality to leave some profit. That's why they're not willing to let him go at any price.
The Alicante native believes this approach only complicates his future even more. Meanwhile, the days keep passing and the preseason moves forward.
Barça considers releasing Iñaki Peña if no offers arrive
If the situation doesn't change, Barça will be forced to make another decision and that measure isn't well received in Camp Nou offices. It would mean letting Iñaki Peña leave at no cost, releasing him from his contract. This option is gaining strength as time goes by and could become a reality if no one raises their offer.
Iñaki Peña has already shown his willingness to leave for free, since he wants playing time and continuity, and he's not willing to keep sitting on the bench. The letter of freedom would allow him to choose his destination with greater freedom. Barça, however, doesn't give up so easily and will wait until the end of the transfer window to see if anyone reaches those 10 million.
The outcome is near and both sides want to close the matter soon
Iñaki Peña's case seems to be coming to an end after many months of tension. Both Barça and the goalkeeper want a quick outcome. The final decision could be known in the coming weeks if there are no developments.
The only certainty is that Iñaki Peña won't continue guarding Barça's goal. The question now is whether he'll bring in money or leave for zero euros.