Barcelona's pact with goalkeeper Arnau Tenas
Arnau Tenas had an extraordinary European Under-21 Championship. He has been one of the most outstanding players of 'La Rojita', runners-up in the continental competition. The goalkeeper from Vic, without a team after FC Barcelona did not execute the clause to automatically renew him, has managed to isolate himself from the rumours about his future and prove that he is a very valuable and interesting goalkeeper for the future.
Last week, Barça contacted Tenas' agent to start talks about him staying. Xavi Hernández publicly acknowledged that he would love him to remain as the third goalkeeper and the club, who were unwilling to extend a contract they considered outdated and unfeasible in the current economic climate, will try to draw up a convincing proposal to the player to make it happen.
Both parties agreed that negotiations should wait until the end of the European Championship so that Arnau could focus on his work with Spain. Now the competition is over, it is expected that the Culé sports management will make a move in the next few hours or days and formalise the new offer. Tenas, as a free agent, is free to sign with the team he considers best for him. In fact, there are several teams very aware of his situation. The goalkeeper, however, has always proudly shown his love for Barça. He will not make any decision before hearing out the offer that the club of his life puts on the table.
Beyond the economic conditions, it will also be important for Barça to set out a roadmap that fits in with the Catalan player's plans. Right now, Marc-André ter Stegen is undisputed in goal and is coming off the back of one of his best seasons since arriving at Camp Nou. The German, however, is 31 years old and, slowly but surely, it is time to start thinking about the next generation. We will see what role Tenas plays in this scenario.
