With only a few days left before the transfer window closes, Saudi Arabian clubs are ramping up their efforts to swoop away experienced players from European football.
In one such endeavour, Al-Ittihad are interested in signing veteran Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez, reports SPORT.
Al-Ittihad want an experienced defender
Indeed, according to the report, Al-Ittihad’s new manager Laurent Blanc is on the lookout for an experienced defender to add to the squad currently at his disposal.
As such, they have set their sights on a move for Martinez, whose contract at Barcelona stands to expire in the summer of 2025.
The report further states that Al-Ittihad have made initial contacts with the Spanish centre-back in the hope of tempting him to make the jump before the transfer window slams shut.
Martinez not looking to leave
Martinez will continue at Barcelona. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
However, as per the report, while Martinez appreciates the interest from Al-Ittihad, he is currently not looking for a change of scenery and intends to continue at Barcelona.
The seasoned campaigner feels valued at the Catalan club, having seemingly become a starter under Hansi Flick in the absence of Ronald Araujo.
As such, the former Athletic club centre-back is not looking to leave Barça late in the summer window.
Furthermore, the Blaugrana are also uninterested in sanctioning Martinez’s departure considering that they will have to make do without Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen for a large part of the first half of the season.
With Eric Garcia also being linked with a move away, Barcelona are not in a position to lose Martinez as well. As such, it is expected that the ex-Athletic Club man will continue at the Catalan club.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-defender-not-considering-a-change-of-scenery-amidst-late-saudi-interest/
Author : Michel Durant
Publish date : 2024-08-27 08:23:06
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