RB Leipzig emerge as leading candidates to sign Barcelona outcast – report | OneFootball

Inaki Pena is living through his final stages at FC Barcelona. The goalkeeper, a product of the club’s La Masia academy and long patient in the shadows of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, has seen his hopes for greater prominence fade this season.

Manager Hansi Flick has placed his trust in the veteran Wojciech Szczesny, who is set to extend his contract for one more season.

It has become clear that the German tactician does not view Pena as a real competitor for the starting role any longer.

Given this scenario, the 26-year-old keeper, whose contract expires in 2026, is preparing for his definitive departure from the club.

RB Leipzig eye Inaki Pena

Now, according to Fichajes, several offers have surfaced to take Inaki Pena away from Barcelona in the summer, but RB Leipzig appear to be leading the race to sign him.

On his way out. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The German club, always alert to market opportunities, values the La Masia graduate’s age, technical ability with his feet, and his training in a demanding environment such as Barcelona’s.

Despite the respect and appreciation he commands from his teammates and coaching staff at Barcelona, Pena’s situation has become untenable.

The lack of minutes, combined with his need to grow in an environment where he is trusted, has accelerated plans for his exit.

As such, Germany now appears as the most probable destination for the young goalkeeper, who pins his hopes on finding a home at RB Leipzig where he can showcase his worth and progress his career.

Earlier reports suggest that Barcelona might even be open to letting Pena leave for free even though he has a year left on his contract.