Barcelona's goalkeeping headache with Neto hoping to see out contract
The club had hoped Neto would leave this summer with his deal up in 2023
Peña and Tenas are waiting in the wings to compete with Ter Stegen
The goalkeeping position is one that has created internal debate at Barcelona. No one doubts Marc ter Stegen will be the No.1, but there are doubts about what to do beyond that.
Neto's decision to stay at Barça until his contract ends until 2023 blocks the young players. Iñaki Peña will return to the club from his loan at Galatasaray and could be the alternative to Ter Stegen, but the Brazilian staying complicated things.
Peña is also out of contract in 2023, so a loan seem unviable, while remaining as third choice is a step back in his progression. So Barça must take the decision to renew him and then maybe loaning him, thinking he will be competition for Ter Stegen once Neto does leave.
Then there is Arnau Tenas. The young goalkeeper is highly rated and could continue in his role alternative between the B team and the first team squad. As with Neto and Peña, his deal is up in 2023, so the club will try and extend him.
The only goalkeeper with a long-term deal is Ter Stegen, who has a contract until 2025.
Academy options
Tenas is an international with Spain U21s and stands out for his style of play, which fits Barça perfectly as he is especially good with his feet.
The stockpile of stopper has reduced with Carevic's move to FK Volkvodina in Serbia, although Barça will sign Nil Ruiz from Damm for the B team.
In addition, there is Arnau Rafus and Ander Astralaga coming through with big expectations, plus American goalkeeper Diego Kochen.
