Valverde to keep Inigo Martinez at Athletic despite Barca's interest
Despite signing Sevilla's Jules Kounde, Barcelona is still reportedly interested in signing Athletic Club's Inigo Martinez, who only has a year left on his contract.
Amid heavy interest from the Blaugrana,
Inigo Martinezwas put out of
Athletic Club’s 0-0 draw with
Mallorcain their La Liga opener as the Basque centre-back is reportedly pushing for a move away from the club.
Ahead of their Sunday La Liga game against
Valencia, Athletic’s boss addressed Inigo Martinez's speculations.
Ernesto Valverdetold his press conference: “When the 31st [of August], we will all be calm, a lot things that we speak about here will end and we have to focus on other things.
“But it is true that we managers are always very persistent with the whole idea that the market finishes when the league starts, because that allows you to focus on the Championship. Now everyone is adjusting [things].”
The 30-year-old defender who has made 15 appearances for his national team joined Athletic Club from
Real Sociedadin 2018 and has been one of the best defenders in La Liga.
Despite the presence of 5 defenders in their composition,
Blaugrana
plans to add another defender to the list. The 31-year-old Martinez's contract expires next summer, and Barca has reportedly made a €15 million bid for the transfer.
Xavi seems to have decided to use three central defenders in the back line and the number of defenders shows that the use of two defenders may be a problem for them.
Sergino Destand Jordi Alba are the team's only natural full-backs, although Sergi Roberto can play at right-back.
DISCLAIMER! Sportmob does not claim ownership of any of the pictures posted on this website. Again, we do not host pictures or videos ourselves. Our authors merely link to the rightful owner. Lastly, Sportmob have carefully considered and reviewed all of its content. Despite that, it is possible that some information might be out-dated or incomplete.