Fabrizio Romano confirms Barcelona are closing in on new defender contract | OneFootball

Despite the transfer window being closed, Barcelona sporting director Deco is still hard at work. He’s currently focused on in-house matters, and one of the new items on his agenda is tying down Gerard Martin to a new contract.

Martin has established himself as a regular starter over the last 12 months, taking advantage of Inigo Martinez’s exit last summer – and the club’s failure to sign a replacement. He has performed well since moving into a centre-back role, which is why he will soon be rewarded with a new deal.

Martin’s current contract expires in the summer of 2028, and in order to ward off transfer interest – Chelsea and AC Milan have previously shown interest – Barcelona have opened talks over a renewal, as reported by MD’s Fernando Polo – and since confirmed by Fabrizio Romano.

“Gerard Martín, left-back and center-back capable of covering multiple positions, is in talks with Barça for a contract extension. As reported by Fernando Polo, the club is already exchanging with the player and his agents to prepare the negotiations. Nothing is done yet and Barça feels no urgency.

“The player is very happy at Barcelona, and the club greatly appreciates his development, his performances, and his potential. Internally, Barça is convinced that Gerard Martín will do very beautiful things at the club and knows that he will not create any problems during the negotiations. A contract extension therefore remains clearly a topic of discussion.”

Martin renewal makes sense, but new signing still needed in 2027

Generally, Martin has performed well when called upon by Hansi Flick, but he has also had plenty of moments where he has looked shaky. He’s good to keep around as a squad player, but if Barcelona are to give themselves the best chance of achieving success in La Liga and the Champions League, they should look for an upgrade in 2027.