Iñaki Peña is having a golden opportunity at FC Barcelona, as following Marc-André ter Stegen's injury, the 25-year-old goalkeeper from Alicante has taken absolute ownership of the Blaugrana's goal. Unless there is a drastic turn of events, the '13' will maintain his position throughout the 2024-25 season, as it is expected that the absence of the German, who is recovering from a complete rupture of the patellar tendon in his right knee, will keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season.
However, it is clear that when Marc-André ter Stegen returns, Iñaki Peña, who is under contract with Barcelona until 2026, will likely return to his role as the second goalkeeper. This might not be to the Alicante native's liking, as he has gradually demonstrated abilities that suggest he could aspire to be the starting goalkeeper for a team full-time.
Girona Reportedly Interested in Signing Iñaki Peña in 2025
Given this premise, it is not surprising that rumors are starting to emerge, as was the case last season, regarding a potential departure of Iñaki Peña from Barcelona, with several teams positioning themselves as favorites to secure the services of the La Masia product. According to reports on the 'Fichajes.net' website, a LaLiga EA Sports team is interested in signing the Alicante native in the summer transfer market of 2025.
According to the source, Girona, which currently has Paulo Gazzaniga as the starting goalkeeper, is interested in adding Iñaki Peña to their squad. This would be a timely move given the youth of the La Masia graduate, positioning him not only as an asset for the present but also for the future.
Hailing from FC Barcelona, a Catalan team, his adaptation to life, idiosyncrasies, and culture in the Catalan capital would not be difficult. Furthermore, he would join a team that shares some commonalities with the style of play currently being developed by the Barcelona side, which would seem to be an advantage for his potential integration into Girona.
Will Barcelona Choose to Let Him Go?
It remains to be seen whether Barcelona is willing to let Iñaki Peña depart, whose current market value stands at €8 million according to the 'Transfermarkt' website. It is worth noting that there had recently been mention of the possibility of offering him a contract renewal due to the impressive level he has shown as Ter Stegen's stand-in. Will Barça choose to let him leave? Only time will tell.