Iñaki Peña is living days of uncertainty. At 26, the FC Barcelona goalkeeper knows that he won't have a leading role this season. Ter Stegen is the undisputed owner of the goal and the club doesn't see him as a top-level replacement.
His departure is on the table, but it won't be immediate.
The problem isn't a lack of offers. It's a contractual procedure that's holding everything back. His loan is practically finalized with a new team, but it can't be announced until Peña renews his contract with Barça.
The condition that delays everything
The goalkeeper has a contract until 2026, however, the club wants to secure him before letting him leave. The idea is to extend the deal for three more seasons, until 2029. Only then can his loan be finalized.
Some sources confirm that the agreement to renew is already in place, but the signature and official announcement are still missing. Once that's done, the player will be able to leave on loan to get more playing time and keep his progression.
Meanwhile, his future remains on hold, something that creates impatience for all parties involved. His transfer can't happen until he renews with Barça, it's that simple.
Elche, chosen destination
Among the interested clubs, Elche has been the big winner. The interest of its coach, Eder Sarabia, has been decisive. Sarabia believes that Peña can provide immediate solidity and be a leader in the locker room.
The agreement between clubs is complete. The loan is ready and it's expected to become official very soon, as long as the renewal with Barça is confirmed first.
For Peña, Elche represents a real opportunity to be a starter, play a full season, and show that he's ready for bigger challenges. For Barça, it's the way to guarantee that its goalkeeper keeps growing without losing him in the long term.
Key move in the goal
Peña's situation is better understood when looking at the global picture. Barça already has Ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczesny in its squad, signed to provide experience and security between the posts. In addition, the club has brought in Joan García this summer, a young goalkeeper who arrives with potential and a promising future.
With this structure, Peña's role would be reduced to a third goalkeeper with hardly any chances. That's why the loan is seen as the best option for everyone. Barça secures him for the long term, Elche adds a reliable goalkeeper, and Peña will be able to keep competing regularly.