Real Betis emerge as serious suitors for Barcelona star facing summer departure | OneFootball

According to SPORT, Real Betis have shown strong interest in bringing in Barcelona’s goalkeeper Inaki Pena.

The outlet mentions that the talks come as Barça look to make changes in their goalkeeping department after signing Joan Garcia.

With Garcia coming in, the club needs to let some goalkeepers leave, and Pena seems to be the first on his way out. The 26-year-old knows he has no future at the Spotify Camp Nou and is open to finding a new team.

Barcelona want him to leave

Barcelona have already decided that Pena will leave the club.

The plan is to have Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny as the first and second choices in goal, with young Diego Kochen getting chances as the third keeper and sometimes playing with the reserves. Meanwhile, Ander Astralaga, another young goalkeeper, could leave on loan.

Real Betis are showing interest in Inaki Pena. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

It is to be noted that Pena has only a year left on his contract. The club wants to make his departure smooth because of his loyalty and positive attitude.

Several clubs are interested, but Betis seem the most serious. Celta Vigo and teams from outside Spain have also asked about him.

Competition at Betis and calendar challenges

If Pena accepts Betis’ offer, he will face tough competition from Alvaro Valles, who has rejoined the club. Betis, however, need depth in their squad.

They will play in three competitions this season, including the Europa League, after reaching the Conference League final last year, where they lost to Chelsea. This busy calendar means they need good options in every position, especially in the goal.

Betis have made moves for Barça players before, like Ez Abde and Vitor Roque. They see Pena as an important addition to their squad.

Meanwhile, Barça hope Pena can continue playing at a high level elsewhere and getting him off their books is their priority.