Barcelona looking for a backup goalkeeper in June pending financial clearance – report

In an ideal scenario, Barcelona would have loved to splash the cash this summer and make squad-defining changes. After all, a trophy-less run this season does not sit well for the European giants.

The financial constraints, however, limit their ability to maximise the summer transfer window. The pivot and left-wing, therefore, have taken precedence as the top priorities.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are also eyeing the signing of a new goalkeeper although it is not a priority operation. After all, Mac-Andre Ter Stegen will continue as the primary goalkeeper next season.

Pena to leave

The Spanish outlet furthers that Inaki Pena, who had offers to leave last summer, is once again close to the exit door at Barcelona.

Inaki Pena may leave Barcelona this summer. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The youngster had plenty of chances with the senior side this season after Marc-Andre Ter Stegen was forced to go under the blade, but his conceding 32 goals in 17 games did not leave the best of impressions.

Pena, thus, could leave the club this summer leaving Xavi and Co. without a backup goalkeeper. A new signing, however, will depend on the financial fair play margin, failing which the club will once again look towards the academy.

The in-house solution

Should Barcelona find it complicated to fund the arrival of a new goalkeeper, Ander Astralaga has a good chance of taking over as the team’s main backup in goal.

The Basque goalkeeper has featured as the Blaugranas’ third-choice keeper all season, and while he has not enjoyed many minutes, is seen as one who holds great promise.

Still just 20 years old, Astralaga can be moulded the way the manager demands and is still far from his peak. Considering Xavi’s history of maintaining faith in La Masia stars, he could well look to turn to the academy instead of the transfer market come June.