La Liga rivals eyeing Barcelona academy graduate for the summer – report | OneFootball

Inaki Pena finds himself staring at an uncertain future at FC Barcelona, having fallen down the pecking order under Hansi Flick this season.

The 26-year-old was the preferred starter in goal after Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury but has been displaced by Wojciech Szczesny since January this year.

With the veteran Pole expected to sign a new contract with the Catalans and continue beyond this season, Pena’s fortunes are unlikely to improve and as a result, a summer exit has become a distinct possibility.

Celta Vigo eyeing Inaki Pena

Now, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona’s La Liga rivals Celta Vigo have set their sights on Inaki Pena as an option for the summer.

Celta Vigo are actively searching for a new first-choice goalkeeper to take over from Vicente Guaita.

Celta Vigo eye Pena. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

At 38 years old, Guaita’s future as a starter at Celta appears uncertain. Although his contract expires on 30th June, there is a possibility of renewal. But, the club’s primary plan is to invest in a younger, long-term option to take over the starting role.

The club’s technical department has already begun the search for a reliable goalkeeper, with three names standing out as potential signings, with Pena among those shortlisted.

The 26-year-old La Masia gem is eager for regular football, and as such, a move away from his boyhood club appears increasingly likely.

And, Celta could provide the perfect opportunity for Pena to establish himself as a first-choice goalkeeper in La Liga.

Apart from the Barcelona star, Luis Maximiano (Almeria) and Antonio Sivera (Alaves) are also on Celta’s radar. So, it remains to be seen if the Galician outfit goes after Pena or chooses one of the other alternatives.