Barcelona are carefully planning their next move in the transfer market, particularly regarding the signing of a new goalkeeper.
According to a recent report from SPORT, the club has opted to hold off on making any signings until the January window opens and they have already shortlisted three potential candidates for the position.
The injury to Marc-Andre ter Stegen has created an opportunity for Barcelona to bring in a free agent as a temporary solution. However, instead of rushing into a transfer, the club has decided to give their current second-choice goalkeeper, Inaki Pena, a chance to prove himself.
There is a hope that Pena’s performances can hold the fort until the transfer window reopens in January and if he meets expectations, the club may delay signing a new goalkeeper.
Who are the three options?
Barcelona’s scouting team has already identified three goalkeepers as potential signings for the winter transfer window. The first name on their radar is Alvaro Valles, who currently plays for UD Las Palmas.
Despite being under contract, Valles has not been featuring for the team due to unresolved renewal negotiations. This situation has caught the attention of Barcelona, who view him as a solid option.
Another goalkeeper Barcelona are monitoring is Stole Dimitrievski, currently at Valencia. The Macedonian international has found himself sidelined after Giorgi Mamardashvili remained with the team.
Barcelona are aware that Dimitrievski’s contract includes a clause allowing him to leave for a reasonable fee, and the club has been tracking him for some time.
The final name under consideration is Guillaume Restes, the current first-choice goalkeeper for Toulouse. Barcelona had considered making a move for Restes during the last transfer window, especially if Pena had chosen to leave the club.
The Catalan side had reportedly prepared a bid of €15 million, with an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses, making it an affordable option.
In the coming months, much will depend on Pena’s performances, but Barcelona have ensured they have viable alternatives lined up if a new signing becomes necessary in January.
