Barcelona homegrown star nears loan exit after agreeing three-year renewal – Romano | OneFootball

Barcelona are entering the final stretch of the transfer window with several unresolved operations and little margin for error. With the deadline set for Monday, 1 September, the sporting department is accelerating negotiations that have stalled in recent weeks.

Among the most decisive is the departure of goalkeeper Inaki Pena, whose exit will enable the registration of fellow goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Elche move close for Inaki Pena

Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, Pena is close to finalising a loan move to Elche. Before leaving, the La Masia goalkeeper will sign a contract extension with Barcelona until 2029, easing financial pressure by restructuring his salary to facilitate the move.

The deal carries several layers of importance. For Barcelona, it secures the long-term rights of a La Masia player with clear potential to consolidate himself at the elite level.

Headed to Elche. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

At the same time, it frees up squad space and reduces the wage bill – an essential step for the registration of Szczesny.

Elche have emerged as the ideal destination for Pena both professionally and personally.

Managed by Eder Sarabia, former assistant coach at Barcelona under Quique Setien, the club have made a positive start to the season and see Pena as their main target to strengthen the goalkeeping position.

The move also carries a sentimental factor: returning to his native Alicante to relaunch his career and gain continuity in La Liga.

Pena has agreed on a new deal at Barça for the next three years, and the two clubs are checking documents before the loan move can be made official.