The arrival of Joan García has changed the outlook for Iñaki Peña. The goalkeeper finds himself in a complicated situation. At Barcelona, competition is fierce: Ter Stegen remains key and Szczesny brings experience and security.
With these three options in goal, opportunities for Peña are drastically reduced. That's why the goalkeeper is already considering leaving the club to seek playing time and continuity.
Celta de Vigo knocks on the door again
For months, Celta de Vigo has shown interest in Peña. According to various sources and the newspaper Sport, the Galician club is still considering the option of signing him next summer transfer window.
Although Celta claim that the goal is covered for the 2025-26 season, many supporters are calling for reinforcements. The fans know that the goalkeeper position is key and believe Peña could be that ideal reinforcement.
The negotiation and the contract termination
Barça doesn't want to keep Peña and plans to terminate his contract. However, it will only do so when it can register Joan García and Szczesny in the LaLiga squad. Peña has traveled with the team for the preseason tour in Asia, but he still hasn't seen any playing time.
Last season, he played 23 matches and managed to keep a clean sheet on seven occasions. However, internal competition and the lack of opportunities have led him to negotiate his departure.
Celta seeks a zero-cost deal
The Galician club is clear that it wants Peña as a signing with no transfer fee. The goal is for Barcelona to terminate his contract and for Peña to arrive as a free agent. Since the Mouriño family took over Celta, they haven't invested much in goalkeepers.
The only signing in almost 20 years was Marchesín, who didn't quite convince. That's why they're betting on an economical option, without risks, and one that fits the team's style.
The great challenge for Iñaki Peña
To close the deal, Peña will have to accept a considerable pay cut. That could complicate negotiations, since his current salary at Barça is high and other offers may come his way.
Peña fits well in Giráldez's style, thanks to his good footwork, which is key for the modern goalkeeper. Everything suggests that Iñaki Peña's future is close to being decided. It seems that the phrase he already said, "I'll play for Celta," is very close to coming true.