A Barcelona star’s expected transfer move has collapsed, forcing a dramatic shift in plans as new suitors emerge.
Barcelona’s clash with Como in the Joan Gamper Trophy ended in a commanding 5-0 victory for Hansi Flick’s side, but off the pitch, a transfer saga involving one of their academy graduates has taken a dramatic turn.
Como, under the guidance of former Barcelona star Cesc Fàbregas, has been actively pursuing talent from the Catalan club to bolster its youthful Serie A squad.
However, a deal that seemed promising has now hit a significant roadblock, casting doubt on the player’s immediate future.
The player at the center of this twist is Inaki Pena, the young goalkeeper who has struggled to secure a regular spot in Barcelona’s first team.
Despite official talks between the two clubs, negotiations have stalled due to a wide gap in their terms, according to Diario Sport.
Como’s urgency to sign a starting goalkeeper has led them to explore other options, including ex-Barcelona and current PSG talent Arnau Tenas, leaving Pena’s potential move to Italy on the brink of collapse.
Barcelona’s reluctance to release Pena until they officially register Joan Garcia as a replacement further complicates the situation.
With the transfer window ticking, Como’s shift in focus has forced Pena to consider alternative paths.
Interest from La Liga sides Celta Vigo and Sevilla offers a lifeline, with a potential loan move that includes an option to buy being discussed.
Such an arrangement could see Pena renew his contract with Barcelona before departing, securing his long-term value while gaining crucial playing time elsewhere.
This unexpected twist underscores the challenges of managing Barcelona’s depth, where even talented academy products like Pena face fierce competition.
As Como pivots to other targets and Barcelona prioritizes its squad planning, Pena’s next move remains uncertain.
Whether he stays in Spain or explores new horizons, the young goalkeeper’s journey is far from over, with his resilience and adaptability now under the spotlight.
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