Barcelona have made contact over Lisandro Martinez, with TeamTalk reporting that the Spanish champions are assessing the Manchester United defender as part of their plans to strengthen at left-sided centre-back.
The position has been under review at Barca for some time and the club are now shaping their options ahead of the January transfer window. Martinez is understood to be among the names under consideration, with Hansi Flick seeking greater depth and experience in defence.
Lisandro Martinez on Barcelona shortlist
According to the report, “Barcelona have made enquiries about Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez as they assess their options for a new left-sided centre-back ahead of the January transfer window”. That interest has not emerged in isolation. Barca had prioritised the role previously, with Alessandro Bastoni seen as a major target, although a deal for the Inter defender remains difficult.
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Arsenal defenders Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori, plus Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol, have also been looked at. Yet those moves are viewed as highly complicated, especially in the middle of the season. As a result, Barcelona have turned towards alternatives they believe may be more realistic.
TeamTalk states that “Real Betis defender Natan and Martinez are both on Barcelona’s list of potential January targets”. Natan is described as a cheaper route, though there appears to be doubt over whether he would provide the level of improvement Barcelona want.
Martinez, on the other hand, is seen as a player who “offers the experience and quality Barcelona are seeking”. That standing remains significant, even after a challenging spell at Old Trafford.
Manchester United facing contract call
The key issue for Manchester United centres on control. Martinez’s current contract runs until the summer, but the club hold an option to extend by another 12 months. Triggering that clause would strengthen United’s position in any negotiation…
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