Real Sociedad expect key defender to stay despite growing Barcelona interest – report | OneFootball

Jon Martin’s remarkable rise to prominence continued this week when the 20-year-old centre-back made his senior debut for the Spanish national team in Thursday’s friendly against Iraq.

It capped a brilliant season that saw him transform from being a promising prospect into one of the most sought-after defenders in La Liga.

Barcelona are among the clubs who have taken notice, with reports earlier this season suggesting a meeting between Deco and the player’s agent.

Real Sociedad not panicking

Jon Martin wants to remain at Sociedad. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

According to Diario AS, Real Sociedad are calm about the situation around Jon Martin’s future and there is no panic within the camp, amid interest from Barcelona.

Martin played 32 matches this season at Real Sociedad, accumulating 2,849 minutes and scoring two goals.

Given his importance in the team, the defender appears to have no plans to leave the club anytime soon.

“In the end, a lot of things are said, but I don’t know anything and I’m not worried about it. My focus is on Real Sociedad,” he said in May.

He went adding, “For me, Real Sociedad is a feeling. Everyone in Gipuzkoa dreams of playing here, and I’m proud to play for Real Sociedad.”

With Martin contracted until 2031, it appears unlikely he will go anywhere this summer, despite all the interest from Barcelona.

What’s next for Barcelona?

Jon Martin could have been an ideal reinforcements at Barcelona. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Since Martin is seemingly not an option, Barcelona must look at other alternatives, as they look to add defensive reinforcements heading into new season.

For now, though, signing a centre-back doesn’t seem to be of much importance, given that Andrea Christensen may sign a new contract while the club have decided to back Ronald Araujo.

Keeping that in mind, Barcelona are more concerned about signing a new forward, as they look to find a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.