Athletic Club defender Inigo Martinez has been on the radars of Barcelona since last summer. The Catalans tried to sign him in that window but ultimately decided against the move due to Financial Fair Play problems as well as the acquisition of Jules Kounde.
However, interest in Martinez has not faded as Barcelona remain intent on signing the Spanish international on a free transfer in the summer.
And, according to Depredict, Martinez is prepared to wait for Barcelona in the summer, even though he has other suitors chasing his signing.
The 31-year-old defender wants to join the Blaugrana and the club, too, want to sign him up on a Bosman deal. In fact, there have been recent conversations between the La Liga leaders and the player’s representatives when the matter has been discussed.
Barcelona are understood to have conveyed to Martinez and his camp that they remain interested in acquiring his services in the summer.
However, they have also informed them that any move would be dependent on the club’s Financial Fair Play situation as it would dictate whether they can register him or not ahead of next season.
Aware of the situation, other clubs such as Atletico Madrid have made a move and approached Martinez to explore the possibility of a transfer.
But, as per the report, the Spanish defender wants a move to Barcelona in the summer and is prepared to wait for the Catalans to sort their affairs and sign him.
The centre-half will not consider other offers until he has been told that a move to Camp Nou is no longer a possibility.
Barça, for their part, see Martinez as an important signing despite having forged a solid defensive unit. Having lost Gerard Pique last year, the Catalans see the 31-year-old as a replacement to add more experience to the defensive line.
Should Martinez arrive, the report states that Barcelona will not look to sign a right-back as they believe that the position will be covered. Julian Araujo is expected to sign for Barça Atletic and will be called up by Xavi when needed, while Sergi Roberto is also set to renew.
Furthermore, if Martinez joins, Jules Kounde could have to play more at right-back as well, an idea he is growing receptive to.
