In light of economic hardships, the year 2023 has been mostly about player contracts, as far as Barcelona are concerned.
The Catalan entity has worked behind the scenes to register contract renewals of Gavi and Ronald Araujo while building up new deals for players such as Sergi Roberto, who is expected to sign a renewal in the near future. Barcelona are keen on extending the deals for other players as well.
However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are facing difficulties in procuring a new deal for Inaki Pena. Although the club are keen on extending the contract of the young goalkeeper, the player himself has shown reluctance in penning the new deal.
This comes after reports that suggested that Barça and Pena were on course to agree a new deal. Even the length of the contract was decided, with the club preparing a three-year contract until 2026.
But Pena has now offered concerns over his continuity at Barça. This is because the goalkeeper is unhappy with his lack of game-time and believes his growth could be halted in the event of a prolonged stay at Camp Nou.
The 23-year-old, who came on the back of an excellent loan spell at Galatasaray in 2022, has indeed fallen behind Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the pecking order this season. He has featured in only three competitive matches this season, two of which came in Copa Del Rey.
With ter Stegen performing at the top of his game, Pena’s chances of making a breakthrough look seemingly bleak. Hence, the player could consider a move elsewhere. Galatasaray had shown the desire to re-sign him in January. Real Betis, too, have showcased the desire to sign Pena for the coming season.
However, Pena’s camp has not ruled out the possibility of a renewal either, so it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the young goalkeeper this coming summer.
