Barça reaches personal deal with Martínez, Inter hurdle looms
In a bustling Barcelona office, FC Barcelona announced a personal agreement with Argentine striker Lautaro Martínez, signalling the Catalan giants' continued hunt for a replacement after Robert Lewandowski’s departure, with Foot Mercato reporting the deal could open negotiations with Inter.
The Catalanen are still on the market for a new striker after the exit of Robert Lewandowski. They had previously seemed set on Julián Álvarez, but the focus now appears to be shifting. The Blaugrana, as the club is known, are keen to fill the void.
Shift from Álvarez to Martínez
A personal agreement has reportedly been reached with the 28‑year‑old Argentijn Lautaro Martínez. This move suggests the club leadership is now targeting another Argentine forward. "Goodbye Julián Álvarez, hello Lautaro Martínez," Foot Mercato wrote. Foot Mercato highlighted the significance of the deal in its report.
Inter's price barrier
Internazionale has indicated it would not entertain a sale at this stage. Barcelona is preparing a bid that does not exceed one hundred million euros, but is intended to open negotiations with Inter. A definitive transfer remains uncertain.
Barcelona expect Frenkie de Jong clearance within a week
According to reports from Frankrijk, Barcelona has been in talks with Martínez’s entourage over the past few days. Earlier the Blaugrana appeared fully committed to Álvarez, but the club’s focus has now shifted. The Spanish SPORT story was published a day before the Martínez news emerged.
Atlético Madrid has refused to sell to a direct rival, prompting Barcelona to act as the transfer window closes. Negotiations around Martínez have accelerated in recent hours. Barcelona moved forward as the end of the transfer window approached.
Spanish SPORT reported that Frenkie de Jong could play a key role in facilitating the Argentine striker’s move. A departure of De Jong would give Barça more flexibility to meet the sum Inter may demand. De Jong is currently dealing with a knee injury and is working to regain fitness. The Spanish SPORT story was published a day before the Martínez news emerged.