Inter’s steadfast stand versus Barcelona whispers on Lautaro

Amid swirling speculation that Barcelona may lure Inter’s Argentine striker, Lautaro Martínez, Inter coach Cristian Chivu insisted on Friday that the club intends to keep the forward, while also acknowledging that “el mercado siempre es bastardo”. The contrast pits transfer gossip against a public pledge of continuity.

Coach Chivu backs Martínez’s role

Chivu, speaking for Inter MUNDO, described Martínez as a pillar of the ‘neroazzurro’ side and said he trusts the Argentine’s continuity at Inter. He emphasized that Martínez is a fundamental piece of the project and that the club does not intend to facilitate his exit.

In the pre‑match press conference ahead of Saturday’s league opener against Monza, Chivu declared “Lautaro is our captain” and added that the team is “building something important” around him. The statement underlined the striker’s leadership role as Inter prepares for the first fixture.

Chivu warned that during the next ten days the media will focus heavily on Martínez, as has happened with other high‑profile players. He noted that such attention can create situations that “probably a coach does not like”, and reiterated that “the market is always bastard”.

While avoiding a definitive guarantee, Chivu said he “clings” to Martínez and believes the forward will remain at Inter for a long period. He concluded with a firm message: “Of course we want Lautaro to stay. That is my message.”

The club’s stance reflects its view of Martínez as a key element of its sporting project, not a tradable asset. Despite Barcelona interest, Inter’s hierarchy appears determined to keep the striker integral to their future plans.

The juxtaposition of relentless market chatter and the coach’s unequivocal support highlights a coming test: whether Inter can shield its captain from external pressure or whether the “bastard” market will eventually dictate his fate.