Barcelona hit by surprise obstacle in planned departure of exit-bound star | OneFootball

Barcelona are facing an unexpected challenge in their attempt to part ways with Inaki Pena this summer, according to a report from SPORT.

While the club had made the decision to move on from the goalkeeper despite his contract running until 2026, a series of failed opportunities have now put his exit in serious doubt.

Pena, who was once seen as a strong deputy and delivered a solid first half of the 2024–25 season, was initially drawing interest from several clubs. But the two main candidates, Celta Vigo and Galatasaray, have recently gone in other directions.

Both clubs have almost completed deals for other goalkeepers, closing the door on Pena.

Furthermore, Real Betis, who had also made an enquiry, have chosen to sign a different keeper. Sevilla have followed suit by renewing Alvaro Fernandez’s contract.

High salary stalling talks

The situation has grown complicated due to Pena’s high salary, which is proving to be a major hurdle.

Inaki Pena’s suitors are withdrawing. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Despite being the third-choice keeper under Hansi Flick, the 26-year-old is one of the highest-paid goalkeepers in La Liga.

This wage package is difficult for mid-tier clubs to match, and it has significantly limited the number of teams who can afford to take him on.

Barcelona, aware of the difficulty, are now considering offering Pena a letter of freedom, which would allow him to leave for free.

The club is even open to covering part of his wages to facilitate a transfer and reduce the burden on the buying club.

Still, there is some hope, as fellow La Liga side Valencia are monitoring Pena closely.

With Giorgi Mamardashvili set to join Liverpool and Jaume Domenech also set to depart, Valencia are left with only one keeper, Stole Dimitrievski, whose contract runs until 2026. That makes them one of the few realistic options left.