Exit-bound Barcelona outcast prefers La Liga stay over foreign switch | OneFootball

It is no secret that Barcelona are working hard to balance their squad and finances ahead of the new season, and one of the players expected to leave is goalkeeper Inaki Pena.

According to a report from SPORT, the 26-year-old shot-stopper prefers to continue his career in Spain, even though options from abroad are also on the table.

Pena’s future remains uncertain, even though it was widely believed that his exit would have been sorted by now.

After losing his place in the starting XI to Wojciech Szczesny in January, the keeper has not featured prominently and does not figure in new head coach Hansi Flick’s long-term plans.

With his contract running until 2026, Pena is now hoping to negotiate a termination deal with the club.

Celta Vigo have shown the most serious interest so far, while Turkish side Galatasaray, where Pena already had a loan spell, are also monitoring the situation.

However, Pena is putting his personal life first and would rather stay in Spain if possible.

Barça could offer a free exit

Inaki Pena wants to stay in Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

One major issue complicating his transfer is his salary. Despite being only the third-choice goalkeeper under Flick, Pena is one of the highest-paid players in his position across La Liga.

This high wage has made it difficult for mid-table clubs, both in Spain and elsewhere, to come forward with strong offers.

Barcelona, well aware of this financial roadblock, are now open to giving Pena a letter of freedom. This would allow him to leave the club for free, which could make it easier for him to find a new team.

The club is even willing to cover part of his salary to help close a deal and lighten their own wage bill.

The coming weeks will be decisive, but all signs suggest that while Pena’s time at Barcelona is coming to an end, he hopes to remain in familiar surroundings, ideally within Spanish football.