Manchester United are reportedly tracking the contract negotiations between Barcelona and Inigo Martinez with great interest, as they would be ready to jump on any given opportunity.
The 33-year-old signed for the Blaugrana on a free transfer in the summer of 2023 after seeing out his contract with the Athletic Bilbao. However, the Spaniard found himself at the bottom of the pecking order with Xavi at the helm.
Nevertheless, Hansi Flicks’s appointment in the summer breathed new life into the veteran’s stint at Camp Nou. Martinez has been one of the first names on the German manager’s team sheet since the start of the season. The veteran has made 24 appearances thus far, scoring two goals and providing as many assists in the process.
Man United following Inigo Martinez contract talks with great interest
Man Utd interested in Inigo Martinez
Therefore, Barcelona are eager to extend the defender’s expiring contract, as Flick doesn’t want to lose his services at the end of the season, especially after cementing himself as a regular starter.
“His performance is great, he is a leader. It is a very young team, so it is important to have experienced footballers like Iñigo. In training he usually wins all the duels,” said the former Bayern Munich coach in a press conference earlier this season.
But according to Fichajes.net, Man Utd are still monitoring the situation as they hope to find a crack that allows them to usurp the Catalan giants and secure an agreement with Martinez over a summer transfer.
The Red Devils will likely need a few defensive additions in the summer as Victor Lindelof and Johny Evans are likely leaving once their deals expire in June, and even Harry Maguire’s future remains uncertain, even though the latter has recently described his contract talks with the club as ‘positive’.