Barcelona’s local rivals line up move for La Masia graduate – report | OneFootball

Barcelona star Inaki Pena is at a decisive moment in his career. At 26 years of age, the goalkeeper formed at La Masia does not have a place in the Blaugrana’s immediate plans under Hansi Flick.

Unless there is a surprise, he will leave the club during the current summer transfer window, with the Catalans only waiting to complete Wojciech Szczesny’s registration before they let go of the Spaniard.

Inaki Pena, a target for Girona

Now, according to Fichajes, Barcelona’s local rivals Girona are weighing up a late move for Inaki Pena before the transfer window closes.

Girona’s interest appears as a real and logical option for the 26-year-old. The Montilivi club has identified weaknesses in its goalkeeping department following errors by Paulo Gazzaniga at the start of the league campaign that compromised results.

Inaki Pena is expected to leave. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Aware of the need for a more reliable option to remain competitive at the top end of the table, Girona’s management sees Pena as a secure reinforcement, thanks to his experience at Barcelona and the ability to perform in matches of maximum demand.

For Pena, a move to Girona would mean the chance to become a protagonist again. At Montilivi, he could find an environment where he could grow with continuity, compete for the starting role, and reaffirm his place in Spanish football’s elite.

With the transfer market advancing, Pena’s situation is expected to be resolved soon. Although early plans suggested that Barcelona aim to transfer him permanently, it has recently been suggested that the Catalans could renew his contract and loan him out.

Como in Italy have been working to sign the La Masia product, but Girona have now presented themselves as an option for the shot-stopper.