Report: Barcelona eyeing €55m move to sign another Man United star after Marcus Rashford | OneFootball

Barcelona Confidence Raises Lisandro Martinez Questions at Old Trafford

Manchester United once again find themselves at the centre of transfer speculation, with Lisandro Martinez emerging as a potential target for Barcelona. The original report, credited to Caught Offside, suggests that while there is no immediate alarm inside Old Trafford, there is a growing sense that this situation could develop quickly if not handled carefully.

Martinez has been one of United’s standout performers during a turbulent campaign, and his resurgence has not gone unnoticed across Europe. As one source outlined, “There’s no panic inside Old Trafford just yet, but his fine form has inevitably caught the eye of a few clubs, with Barcelona the only confirmed suitor we can mention for the moment.” That single line neatly captures the tension, calm on the surface, pressure building underneath.

Contract Situation Driving External Interest

The Argentine defender’s contract runs until the summer of 2027, with United holding an option to extend by a further year. That detail matters. As one source explained, “As is often the case with United players, Martinez’s current contract expiry date is 2027, but the club have the option to extend that by one more year.”

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On paper, that should place United in a position of strength. In practice, contract options often bring complications rather than clarity, particularly when elite clubs begin to circle. Other sources quoted in the report hint at a more nuanced reality, suggesting Barcelona sense an opportunity if the player himself becomes open to a move.

Barcelona Belief Behind the Scenes

While United have communicated clearly that Martinez is “not for sale”, optimism persists in Catalonia. One source close to the situation stated, “Privately there are those close to Barcelona who suspect the truth is more along the lines that a deal could be done for the right price.” That belief, whether justified or not, increases the risk of a prolonged summer saga.

Financial considerations also loom large. Martinez is valued at €35m by Transfermarkt, yet multiple sources believe United’s unofficial asking price would be closer to €55m. For a 28 year old defender with a mixed injury record, that fee could appeal to decision makers focused on long term sustainability under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Defensive Depth Alters United Calculations

United’s evolving defensive options add another layer to the discussion. With Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven all in the mix, and Harry Maguire potentially earning a new contract, there is a sense that the club may feel better equipped than before to absorb such a departure.

Still, Martinez’s intensity, leadership and connection with supporters make this a delicate call. Selling well can be smart business, but replacing influence is rarely straightforward. As the report concludes, this is firmly one to watch.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Manchester United, this report lands awkwardly. Lisandro Martinez feels like one of the few players who truly understands what it means to play for the club, particularly during a period of instability. With Michael Carrick now in charge following the sacking of Ruben Amorim, leadership on the pitch carries even greater importance.

Fans will look at the suggested €55m fee and wonder whether that money would genuinely be reinvested wisely. United’s recent transfer history leaves scars. Martinez, when fit, sets standards that others follow, and his partnership potential with younger defenders feels crucial to Carrick’s rebuilding job.

There is also concern about the message this would send. Selling a key performer just as he hits form risks reinforcing the idea that United remain reactive rather than authoritative in the market. While financial sustainability matters, supporters crave sporting ambition alongside balance sheets.

Ultimately, this feels like a crossroads moment. Keep Martinez, offer clarity on his future and back Carrick with stability, or cash in and gamble on depth. Right now, many fans would rather see the club show resolve.