Barcelona reach an agreement with 18-year-old academy gem over new contract | OneFootball

Barcelona have been working diligently to secure the future of their goalkeeping department, ensuring a smooth transition for the years ahead.

With Wojciech Szczesny, 34, only contracted until the end of the current season, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen recovering from a serious knee injury at the age of 32, the Blaugrana have prioritised developing young goalkeepers.

Inaki Pena, the youngest of the first-team goalkeepers at 25, has a contract until 2026 but faces an uncertain future following his relegation to the bench. As such, Barcelona have been proactive in securing their next generation of shot-stoppers.

Agreement reached with Aron Yaakobishvili

Indeed, according to Mundo Deportivo, after officially renewing the contract of 18-year-old Diego Kochen until 2028 in December, Barcelona have now reached an agreement with Hungarian goalkeeper Aron Yaakobishvili over a new deal.

The terms of his contract have not yet been publicly disclosed, but the 18-year-old Hungarian talent’s renewal marks another step in securing the club’s long-term future between the posts.

Yaakobishvili (R) has agreed a new contract. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images for DFB)

Negotiating Yaakobishvili’s renewal has been not straightforward for Barcelona. At one stage, it seemed almost certain that he would not extend his contract, which expires in June.

Speculation even arose that the teenager’s uncertain future had led to a reduction in his playing time, similar to the case of Pau Prim, who has found himself sidelined at Barça Atletic due to contract issues.

When Yaakobishvili was left out of the Juvenil A squad for the UEFA Youth League Round of 16 clash against Dinamo Zagreb, rumours gained traction.

However, the youngster’s absence was actually due to medical protocol following a concussion as he suffered a blow to the face from a ball during a training session on Monday, which resulted in a precautionary withdrawal from the squad.

Fortunately, it turned out to be nothing more than a painful scare. And now, despite the rumours, Barcelona have managed to reach an agreement with the youngster over a new contract.

With Kochen and Yaakobishvili both now secured, and other talents like Iker Rodriguez and Eder Aller also coming through, Barcelona can confidently look ahead, knowing their goalkeeping future is in safe hands.