Barcelona has declined a loan request from Turkish club Galatasaray for their goalkeeper Inaki Pena. The 23-year-old goalkeeper, a La Masia graduate, spent the second half of last season on loan with Galatasaray and made a solid impression. Although he only played in eight games, his time in Turkey caught the attention of Galatasaray, who made the loan enquiry after losing their goalkeeper Sergio Muslera to injury.

Despite the interest from Galatasaray, Barcelona has decided to keep Pena, who was installed as the second-choice goalkeeper behind Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Despite the impressive form of ter Stegen, Pena has only played three games in all competitions this season, once in the UEFA Champions League and twice in the Copa del Rey. Despite his limited playing time, Barcelona sees potential in the young shot-stopper and is keen on developing him into their future number one.

Barcelona is reportedly working on a new contract for Pena, whose current deal is set to expire at the end of the season. According to reports, the renewal is imminent, and the club is set to tie him down until 2026. With his future at Barcelona secure, there will be no second loan stint for Pena at Galatasaray.

In conclusion, Barcelona’s decision to decline Galatasaray’s loan request and retain Pena shows the club’s commitment to developing young talent and building a strong future. With Pena’s renewal imminent and ter Stegen’s impressive form, Barcelona’s goalkeeping position is in good hands. It will be exciting to see how the young goalkeeper continues to develop and grow under the guidance of Xavi Hernandez and the rest of the team.