Barcelona has intensified its activity in the summer transfer market, placing significant emphasis on strengthening its attacking options, particularly on the wings. Alongside this, the club is actively assessing possibilities to reinforce the goalkeeping position.
Although Marc-André ter Stegen is still regarded as Barcelona’s number one goalkeeper, his prolonged absence due to injury during the previous season has raised concerns within the club’s management.
As a precautionary measure, they are exploring options to bring in a dependable alternative who can step in when needed and provide extra security between the posts.
According to reports from the Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona is currently awaiting a decision from Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny. Head coach Hansi Flick views Szczęsny as the perfect candidate to cover for Ter Stegen if necessary. Szczęsny impressed during a recent El Clásico encounter that ended in a thrilling 4–3 victory for Barcelona over Real Madrid.
Following that performance, the experienced Polish international reportedly received a two-year contract offer from the club. Despite the offer, Szczęsny has not yet made a final decision about his future, indicating that he intends to discuss it with his wife before providing a response.
The situation has also affected Iñaki Peña, currently Barcelona’s third-choice goalkeeper. Peña had been hopeful of moving up the pecking order, but the club’s interest in Szczęsny could hinder his chances of becoming the second-choice goalkeeper. Consequently, Peña is reportedly contemplating a departure from the club in search of regular playing time elsewhere.
In addition, Mundo Deportivo has revealed that Barcelona has expressed interest in Aston Villa’s Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. The 32-year-old has been attracting attention from a number of European teams as well as several clubs in Saudi Arabia, who are reportedly willing to make highly lucrative offers to secure his services.
Speculation regarding Martínez’s future intensified after he became visibly emotional during Aston Villa’s 2–0 victory over Tottenham, a moment some interpreted as a potential farewell gesture.
Martínez is also believed to be on Manchester United’s shortlist as a possible successor to André Onana. Renowned for his competitive nature and consistency, Martínez has emerged as a strong candidate in Barcelona’s eyes to strengthen the goalkeeping department and contribute to a more balanced and stable squad for the upcoming season.
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