Flick sees Inigo Martinez’s traits in Premier League defender who is high on priority list | OneFootball

According to a report from SPORT, FC Barcelona are closely tracking Marcos Senesi, with the Bournemouth defender emerging as a serious option ahead of the summer window.

The Catalan club are understood to value Senesi’s profile highly. 

In fact, internally, there is a belief that his style mirrors certain qualities of former defender Inigo Martinez. 

Manager Hansi Flick reportedly sees Senesi as a natural fit for his system.

In need of a centre-back

Barcelona’s search for a centre-back has largely been influenced by financial limitations. 

While Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan perfectly matches the ideal technical and tactical profile, his price tag is considered out of reach, and that reality has forced Barça to explore smarter alternatives.

Senesi, in contrast, represents a more realistic opportunity. The Argentine international is not currently showing signs of extending his contract with Bournemouth, which significantly strengthens Barcelona’s position. 

Marcos Senesi is high on Barcelona’s priority list. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

The possibility of securing him on a free transfer is believed to be one of the key reasons behind the growing interest.

Another advantage is that Senesi holds an Italian passport. This means he would not occupy a non-EU spot in the squad, an important detail for Barcelona when planning registration strategies.

There is significant competition

However, as is always the case, the Blaugrana are not alone in the race. 

Reports from England suggest that several Premier League clubs are monitoring his situation, including Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, and even Chelsea.

Despite that competition, there is optimism in Catalonia, as members of the player’s entourage have reportedly admitted that an offer from Barcelona would be extremely attractive to Senesi.

For Flick and Barcelona, adding a defender with top-level experience, international pedigree, and tactical intelligence would represent smart business, something that Barcelona have done in recent years.