FC Barcelona is experiencing intense days in the final stretch of the transfer market. With just over a week to go, Joan Laporta and Deco are working against the clock to balance the squad, between pending registrations and outgoing operations that haven't been solved yet. The club had hoped to have everything closed before the start of the league, but circumstances have forced negotiations to be extended and key decisions to be made almost at the last minute.
Flick has insisted on the need to lighten the locker room in order to make room for new signings and ensure that all players have a defined role. The German coach has already pointed out some names that aren't in his immediate plans, and the culé sporting management shares the idea that closing these operations is a priority. Among these open cases, one of them is already close to a resolution.
The farewell of a homegrown player
In recent hours, it has become known that Iñaki Peña, a goalkeeper trained at La Masia, has made the decision to step aside. The goalkeeper has reportedly already informed some teammates of his intention to leave, convinced that his role at Barça doesn't allow him to grow. The club's idea is clear: before saying goodbye, it will extend his contract to protect a possible future transfer and prevent him from leaving for free.
Although his level has left a good impression, the offers haven't reached the amount Barça desired, close to €10 million. This has delayed his departure longer than expected, but a solution that satisfies all parties has finally been found. Thus, Peña will put an end to a stage in which he was always ready to compete, but without managing to establish himself as a starter.
New challenge in Italy
The goalkeeper's destination will be Italy, specifically Como, a team in which Cesc Fàbregas is part of the sporting project. The agreement will be closed as a loan with an option to buy, which will allow Barça to keep some control over the player's future. Meanwhile, it will offer him an ideal setting to show his worth in a demanding league.
Serie A will be a different challenge for Peña, who will seek continuity and quality minutes. For the blaugrana club, the operation also represents an opportunity to move forward with its planning. Iñaki's departure frees up a spot in goal and lightens the wage bill, essential aspects in order to register players like Roony Bardghji or Gerard Martín.
In addition, the goalkeeper's experience in a competitive environment could increase his value and open doors for him in the medium term, whether to return more established or to generate future income.