Barcelona back on Lautaro Martinez, but summer 2026 says no

The Catalan club has renewed interest in the Argentinian striker Lautaro Martínez, now captain of Inter, six years after the first concrete attempt. The summer interest has been confirmed by all the protagonists, from president Joan Laporta to sporting director Deco, through Beppe Marotta and Martínez himself.

Confirmation of interest by the club

Sport reported that Joan Laporta expressed the desire to get closer to Martínez, while Beppe Marotta emphasized the intention to conclude a beneficial agreement. Deco, sporting director, added that Barcelona’s sporting project remains a priority for the next season.

Despite the interest, a concrete negotiation never materialized. Inter stated that they consider the captain indispensable and do not want to let go of their leader. Lautaro, informed by his agent Alejandro Camaño, ruled out any transfer speculation.

In 2020 the transfer seemed almost certain: Martínez was in favour and Inter was considering the sale, thanks to the presence of Romelu Lukaku in the squad and the possibility of reinvesting the proceeds. The Catalan project fascinated the striker for the prospect of playing alongside Lionel Messi.

However, the pandemic and Barcelona’s financial crisis prevented the completion of the deal, causing the agreement to fall through before the summer transfer window closed.

Six years later, Martínez has become captain, leader and symbol of Inter, contributing to the recent Nerazzurri successes. The club does not want to be deprived of him and the player does not intend to force a separation.

Barcelona’s new assault stopped at the start, as Inter reiterated the desire to keep their captain.

Inter looks to the future with the aim of continuing to win and to capture the Champions League, the only major trophy still missing from Martínez’s cabinet.