Barcelona turn to Lautaro Martinez as Inter draw firm line over striker

Barcelona’s search for a new striker has suffered another setback after Inter Milan made it clear they have no intention of negotiating the sale of Lautaro Martinez, according to Catalan newspaper Sport.

The Spanish club had already been forced to look beyond Julian Alvarez, with Atletico Madrid equally determined to keep their Argentina international and unwilling to discuss his departure. Barcelona now appear likely to encounter a similar stance if they decide to pursue Martinez, with Italian media reporting that Inter regard the forward as unavailable.

Reports from outlets including Sky Sport Italia say Inter consider Martinez non-transferable and do not plan to open talks with Barcelona, even before the Catalan club make a formal approach.

The development leaves Barcelona’s sporting department facing an increasingly difficult task. Hansi Flick remains keen to add another striker despite Hamza Abdelkarim making an impressive impression during pre-season. The club’s need has become more pressing following Ferran Torres’ move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Martinez is preparing to begin his ninth season with Inter after joining the Italian club from Argentine side Racing Club in 2018 for about 25m euros. Since arriving in Milan, the 28-year-old has developed into one of the team’s most important figures and one of its leading symbols.

His market value rose significantly during his time at Inter, reaching 100m euros at one stage. It is currently estimated at about 85m euros, while the player is also tied to the club by a contract running until 2029.

Those factors make a deal particularly complicated for Barcelona. Martinez earns a high salary and is settled in Milan with his family, circumstances that could reinforce his preference to remain with the Serie A club.

However, Sport says there are still elements that could encourage him to consider a move. After spending several years at Inter, Martinez could be attracted by the prospect of a new challenge and the chance to enhance his standing in the game. A transfer could also offer him a greater opportunity to compete for major trophies and individual awards, including the Golden Boot and Ballon d’Or.

Barcelona have less than two weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, increasing the pressure on the club to find an established striker. Sport concluded: “But with less than two weeks left before the transfer market closes, and Barcelona’s growing need to sign a centre-forward, the Catalan club’s attempt to break Inter’s position on Lautaro seems extremely difficult, after already hitting a similar wall in their efforts to sign Alvarez.”

The situation means Barcelona’s pursuit of a leading Argentina forward has now encountered resistance from two clubs. Atletico Madrid have refused to loosen their grip on Alvarez, while Inter have moved to make clear that Martinez is not available for negotiation.