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Lautaro Martínez chose to stay at Inter Milan despite Barcelona interest
Lautaro Martínez has confirmed that he was open to a transfer to FC Barcelona during the recent summer window, but ultimately chose to remain with Inter Milan. The Argentine striker stated that while the rumors were true, he wanted to stay with his teammates and supporters in Milan.
Reports indicate that Barcelona, led by sporting director Deco, viewed Martínez as a primary target after failed attempts to sign Julián Álvarez. While Martínez was reportedly willing to move provided that the transfer was handled in a “friendly” manner that did not damage his relationship with Inter, the Italian club refused to negotiate. Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta maintained that the captain was not for sale, viewing him as an indispensable figure in the club’s history.
Barcelona’s interest was also stymied by the timing of the negotiations; Inter was unwilling to sell so late in the transfer window without sufficient time to find a replacement. Following the impasse, Barcelona shifted its focus to other attacking options, while Martínez remains committed to Inter under his current contract, which runs until 2029.
Entities
Barcelona · Deco · FC Barcelona · Giuseppe Marotta · Inter Milan · Lautaro Martínez
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] There have been no direct negotiations or contacts between Barcelona and Lautaro Martínez or his representatives. www.spaziointer.it · futbolcentroamerica.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Lautaro Martínez stated he is currently happy with his contract at Inter Milan. futbolcentroamerica.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Barcelona sporting director Deco confirmed that Lautaro Martínez is a target for the club. fcinter.pl · www.spaziointer.it · futbolcentroamerica.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Lautaro Martínez expressed his desire to remain at Inter Milan. futbolcentroamerica.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Lautaro Martínez is under contract with Inter Milan until 2029. fcinter.pl
- [● 2 SOURCES] Barcelona had contact with Inter Milan's president but ceased pursuit after being told the player was not for sale. www.spaziointer.it · futbolcentroamerica.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Previous market rumors suggested a potential transfer fee of approximately 80 to 100 million euros. fcinter.pl · futbolcentroamerica.com