Iñaki Peña's departure from FC Barcelona is closer than ever. After weeks of uncertainty, the goalkeeper has practically finalized his future. Only a small detail remains for everything to become official.
Como's interest and the role of Cesc Fàbregas
Italian club Como, managed this season by Cesc Fàbregas, is looking to strengthen its goalkeeping position and has set its sights on Iñaki Peña. Fàbregas, who knows the goalkeeper well from his time at Barça, wants to have him to build a competitive team. Initially, Como considered the option of Kevin Trapp, an experienced German goalkeeper, but the deal was ruled out and the focus shifted to Peña.
The interest is serious and mutual. Peña sees Como as an opportunity to play regularly and grow within a solid project. The arrival of the Italian club's board in Barcelona next weekend could be key to unlocking the deal.
Barça, the obstacle of registrations
Although the agreement with Como is very advanced, Barça still can't let Peña leave. Currently, he is the only goalkeeper registered in the club's first team. This complicates his transfer or release without first registering a new goalkeeper.
The solution involves registering Joan García, a young prospect from the reserve team, or Szczesny, a goalkeeper who is on the club's radar. This situation is expected to be solved in the coming days, finally allowing Peña's departure without the team losing in the goalkeeping position for the start of LaLiga.
Other options and parallel negotiations
In addition to Como, other clubs have shown interest in the goalkeeper. Celta de Vigo and Turkish club Galatasaray have made contact to secure his services. Celta would only sign Peña if he becomes a free agent, negotiating a contract termination or a loan with part of the salary covered.
Galatasaray is also interested, but the most favorable scenario for Barça and Peña is the Italian option. The transfer would allow Barça to receive some money and the goalkeeper to leave with a finalized contract, avoiding uncertainties.
The last step before goodbye
Time is running out and all parties know it. Peña's agents have already spoken with Deco, the club's sporting director, to express the urgency of closing the deal as soon as possible. There are just over 20 days left before the transfer window closes, and the goalkeeper doesn't want to be left without playing.
Barça only needs to register Joan García or Szczesny to release Peña. When that happens, he will receive his letter of freedom or his transfer to Como will be signed, where he already has an agreement in place.
This move will mark a new beginning for Iñaki Peña, who will seek to establish himself as a starter and show his talent in another country. Meanwhile, Barça will manage to adjust its squad and resources.