Barça Will Face a Transfer Market Where Goalkeeping Will Be One of the Most Discussed Topics. Currently, the club has Marc-André ter Stegen, but the injury he suffered this season forced Barça to seek an emergency solution. The arrival of Wojciech Szczęsny has brought experience and security, while Iñaki Peña, who started as the German's substitute, has been relegated to a secondary role.
Even though Barça has three goalkeepers on the roster, the situation could change in summer. Ter Stegen's recovery and Szczęsny's presence open a debate about future planning, as the club wants to have the best possible structure in goalkeeping. Meanwhile, Iñaki Peña seems to be out of the plans and is looking to leave in search of more prominence.
Szczęsny, Closer to Renewal; Iñaki Peña, Far from Staying
Since his arrival, Szczęsny, although he struggled to adapt at first, has more than met expectations, offering solid performance while Ter Stegen recovers from his injury. The Pole has brought experience, leadership, and security between the posts. His professionalism and performance have caused confidence in the coaching staff and the players.
For this reason, Barça is considering offering him a renewal for one more season. The sports management believes that his continuity would ensure stability in goalkeeping, allowing the team to have two top-level goalkeepers. Meanwhile, Iñaki Peña has decided to leave in summer in search of playing time and the club is willing to facilitate his departure.
Flick Wants to Count on the Pole and Ter Stegen
Hansi Flick is in favor of keeping Szczęsny beyond this season. The German coach values internal competition in all positions and believes that having two experienced goalkeepers would raise the team's level. Moreover, Ter Stegen's age and physical issues make Flick want to ensure a reliable alternative in case of need.
For Flick, the Pole's continuity would allow better management of playing time and guarantee a high level in goalkeeping in all competitions. While Ter Stegen remains the undisputed starter when fully fit, Szczęsny's presence would provide room for rotations and rest without compromising the team's performance.
Sports Management Leans Toward Signing
Meanwhile, Barça's sports management believes the club should sign a young goalkeeper with potential. In this regard, Joan García is highly regarded, the goalkeeper from Espanyol. Joan is considered one of the goalkeepers with the most future and his release clause is 30 million, a figure that Barça sees as an opportunity.
Barça doesn't want to miss the chance to incorporate a reliable goalkeeper who can take over in the coming years. The idea would be for Joan García to join to grow within the team and, in the medium term, compete for a starting position.