Peña, 27, joined Barcelona's La Masia academy from Villarreal in 2012 as a child and progressed through every age group before making his first-team debut in January 2023. Despite renewing his contract until 2029, he never established himself as first choice, with Joan García ultimately blocking his route to regular football.
His two loan spells away told the story clearly. A move to Galatasaray in the 2021-22 season produced eight appearances, including a Europa League tie against Barcelona himself. His most recent stint — at Elche last season — brought 16 La Liga appearances as he helped the club avoid relegation.
Panathinaikos moved quickly once it became clear Peña wanted to leave, agreeing terms for a three-plus-one year deal to make him their first-choice goalkeeper. Barcelona retain a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
The €3m fee is modest for a player who carried a €400m release clause at his peak, but reflects his limited first-team record and the club's desire for a swift resolution. His departure reduces a crowded goalkeeping department that also includes Joan García, Wojciech Szczęsny and Marc-André ter Stegen.
The deal is Barcelona's first confirmed sale of the summer as the club continues to manage its wage structure and reduce squad numbers ahead of the new season.