Barcelona goalkeeper could leave for free amid contract “standstill”

The Catalans could see their second keeper leave the club on a free move next summer.

Barcelona goalkeeper Inaki Pena has demanded more playing time in his contract negotiations with the club.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s incredible form this season has kept Pena on the bench this season. The German goalkeeper has been crucial to the Catalans’ success in La Liga, registering 19 clean sheets in 26 matches.

The lack of game time for Pena seems to have convinced the Spaniard to look for a new club.

According to Mundo Deportivo, contract negotiations between Barcelona and Pena have stalled in recent weeks.

The goalkeeper reportedly expected Xavi to play him against Real Sociedad in Copa del Rey back in January. According to the Spanish outlet, Xavi’s decision to start Ter Stegen has “stopped everything” regarding Pena’s possible contract renewal at Camp Nou.

The 24-year-old’s current deal at Barcelona expires next summer, with Pena listening to offers from other clubs. The homegrown star has attracted interest from Real Betis and a few clubs in the Turkish Super Lig, where he spent the second half of the last season.

In case Pena leaves, Barcelona will reportedly promote Arnau Tenas as their new No. 2 keeper. The club, however, still hopes to convince the former to sign a new contract at Camp Nou.