As the summer transfer window enters its final month, FC Barcelona’s strategic focus has notably shifted from acquiring new talent to orchestrating the departure of several key players. This crucial pivot is driven by the urgent need for a significant financial injection to bolster the club’s economic sustainability and pave the way for future squad enhancements.
Among those earmarked for departure is goalkeeper Iñaki Peña, a product of the esteemed La Masia academy. Despite his previous tenure as a first-team regular, Barcelona appears prepared to manage his absence, especially with the arrival of new signing Joan García and the recent emergence of Wojciech Szczęsny, who supplanted Peña as the starting custodian last season.
Peña’s performance during his extended run as Barcelona’s starting goalkeeper was deemed competent but lacked the exceptional qualities required at the highest level. A pivotal moment occurred early in 2025 when a disciplinary issue, specifically his tardiness for a training session, led to coach Flick losing confidence in his commitment, subsequently opening the door for Szczęsny to claim the number one spot.
While Iñaki Peña’s departure from Barcelona this summer is virtually assured, the club faces a temporary dilemma. He currently stands as the sole registered goalkeeper available to play, which might compel Barcelona to delay his sale until a suitable replacement or alternative solution is secured, ensuring squad depth ahead of the demanding season.
Another significant asset Barcelona is considering cashing in on is Ronald Araújo, widely regarded as one of their most valuable players. With an abundance of central defenders in the squad, the club has been contemplating the sale of one defensive cornerstone throughout the summer, and Araújo’s name has increasingly surfaced in discussions.
Teams across Europe, particularly from Serie A and the Premier League, have reportedly expressed interest in the 26-year-old Uruguayan international. Given his age, immense talent, and leadership qualities, Araújo still possesses considerable potential, making him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking defensive reinforcement. A substantial transfer fee from his sale could provide a much-needed financial boost for the Catalan giants.
Beyond the established names, other La Masia graduates like Gerard Martín, who served as Alejandro Balde’s backup, are also under scrutiny, as he reportedly does not align with coach Flick’s tactical preferences for a left-back. Similarly, Oriol Romeu, a midfielder who emerged from La Masia almost 15 years ago with high expectations, has unfortunately failed to fulfill his early promise.
Romeu spent the previous 2024–25 season on loan at Girona, following a campaign where he featured in 37 games under former manager Xavi Hernández. However, upon Flick’s arrival, it became immediately clear that Romeu was not part of his long-term plans. The 33-year-old remained in Barcelona while the squad embarked on their preseason tour, as the club actively seeks to finalize his permanent departure, even exploring the possibility of a free transfer simply to alleviate his salary burden from the wage bill.
These strategic player sales are not merely about squad restructuring; they are fundamental to Barcelona’s ongoing efforts to achieve financial stability and comply with league regulations. Facilitating the exit of these expendable assets will allow the club to generate crucial funds, reduce the wage bill, and continue its arduous journey back to economic health, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
