Lautaro Martinez has emphatically dismissed speculation linking him with a summer move to Barcelona, stating his desire to remain at Inter Milan. The comments come as Barcelona search for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who departed the club earlier this year.
Barcelona have been linked with several forwards, including Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid and Chelsea’s Joao Pedro, with Martinez emerging as a potential target given previous interest. However, the Argentinian international has made it clear he is settled in Milan and has no intention of leaving unless forced to.
Speaking to Ole, as reported by Marca, Martinez said, “I would definitely like to. My family and I are happy; we even own a restaurant, the children go to school and have their friends. I find it hard to imagine myself anywhere else. You never know, but if they don’t kick me out, I’ll stay here.” This strong statement appears to close the door on a potential move to the Catalan club.
Inter President Giuseppe Marotta has further reinforced Martinez’s position, dismissing the transfer rumours as unfounded. Marotta told 365scores, as quoted by Marca, that “There is no truth to the rumours of Lautaro’s transfer to Barcelona.” This confirmation from the club’s leadership adds weight to the assertion that Martinez will remain with the Nerazzurri.
Martinez has been with Inter for eight years, becoming a key player and the club captain. A transfer would have likely commanded a significant fee, reflecting his importance to the Italian side. Furthermore, some analysts questioned whether Martinez’s playing style, typically featuring in a front two, would seamlessly translate to Barcelona’s system, where the number nine often operates as a more isolated figure. He would have represented a different profile to the other forwards linked with the club, such as Alvarez and Pedro.
The firm stance taken by both Martinez and Inter leaves Barcelona to continue their search for a suitable replacement for Lewandowski, with the transfer window now fully open.
