Atletico Madrid will reportedly look to sign 21-cap Spanish international Inigo Martinez from Barcelona in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Inigo Martinez is the subject of interest from Atletico Madrid. The Spanish giants are scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window. So, the dependable Barcelona defender has emerged as a target for Los Rojiblancos.
Inigo Martinez and his Barcelona boom
Inigo Martinez has been one of the most dependable performers for Barcelona since arriving from Athletic Club in a Bosman move in July 2023. The decision to sign a centre-back on the wrong side of 30 raised eyebrows. However, the Spaniard has proven his naysayers wrong with top-class performances at the heart of the defence thus far for Barcelona.
The 33-year-old has shown no signs of age catching up with him in the last two years, and his exploits have compelled Barcelona to extend his contract by 12 months. Martinez has turned out over 50 times thus far for the Blaugrana while chipping in with three goals and five assists.
Meanwhile, Martinez’s exploits for Barcelona have earned him a recall to his national side. In addition, the veteran defender’s performances have piqued the attention of several well-known clubs. Atletico Madrid will be among the prospective suitors vying for the Spanish centre-back’s signature heading into the summer transfer window.
Move across La Liga on the cards?
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Inigo Martinez is surprising yet understandable. While the Barcelona centre-back is approaching the twilight of his career, he remains at the peak of his powers. So, with Atletico Madrid scouring the market for a central defender heading into the summer transfer window, Martinez has emerged on the club’s radar.
Apart from the Spanish international, the Colchoneros have shown interest in other veteran defenders, including Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain and Martinez are viable targets for Atletico Madrid, and they can be top-class solutions at the heart of the defence in the short run.
However, it is unclear if Barcelona will be open to parting ways with the 33-year-old Spaniard a few months after extending his contract. It will be interesting to see where Martinez plies his trade in the 2025/26 season.