Barcelona in negotiations with Saudi Arabia for defender – move is ‘close’ | OneFootball

Barcelona are in the midst of another registration crisis, with just nine days to go before the start of the Liga season. There is little sign of Joan Garcia, Marcus Rashford or Roony Bardghji being registered as things stand. One way they can ease their issues is with a sale.

It seemed the vast majority of Barcelona’s squad was keen to remain at the club this season, with only some youngsters and fringe players considering departures. Yet Marca report that there is a chance that Inigo Martinez could end up leaving the club.

Saudi Arabia in talks with Barcelona

Their information is that talks are already underway between Barcelona and Saudi Arabian giants Al-Nassr. The 34-year-old is willing to negotiate with Al-Nassr, who have put a large offer on the table for him. The negotiations are expected to be concluded in the coming days one way or another.

Matteo Moretto explains on social media that Martinez is ‘close ‘ to a departure to the Middle East. Since the initial report, El Chiringuito have added that the fee for Martinez would be in the region of €8m, and he would sign a deal for one year with the option of a second season. Javi Miguel reports that the deal would clear sufficient space for the Blaugrana to register Garcia.

Registration issue could force Barcelona’s hand

Barcelona hinted that it would be beneficial to Ilkay Gundogan last summer in order to increase their chances of registering new signing Dani Olmo. Certainly relieving themselves of the salary of Martinez could help ease their salary limit concerns, particularly if they were to receive a fee for the Basque veteran.

Image via EFE

Inigo Martinez departure could be costly

However Hansi Flick may not be best pleased if Martinez does leave. Barcelona will feel that they are well covered with Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde who can all play there. Martinez was the leader of Barcelona’s defence last season though, and often the one marshalling the famed offside trap set by the backline. Without him, Barcelona looked far more vulnerable last season.