Barcelona weigh January move for Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez

Barcelona have revived their interest in Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez as they look to strengthen at centre-back during the January transfer window.

The Catalan club’s defensive options have been reduced by a series of injuries, leaving manager Hansi Flick with limited choices in the position. Martinez is one of the names under consideration by Barcelona sporting director Deco, according to Catalan newspaper Sport.

However, any move for the Argentina international would depend on Barcelona being able to complete the deal at a relatively low cost. The club must work within its budget restrictions and comply with financial fair play rules.

The Athletic journalist Laurie Whitwell, who covers Manchester United, told Sport that Barcelona’s interest in Martinez remains active but is dependent on whether suitable financial terms can be agreed. Manchester United’s position is therefore expected to play a decisive role in determining whether negotiations progress.

Barcelona’s need for another central defender has grown after injuries affected Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen and Xavi Espart. The situation has pushed the search for defensive reinforcements back to the top of the club’s sporting priorities.

Deco had been unable to persuade Flick that Barcelona needed to sign a player in that position during the summer. The latest run of injuries has now increased the pressure to address the issue before the second half of the season.

Barcelona are listed to face Aston Villa in the Champions League on 03 November 2026, while Manchester United are listed to play Roma in the same competition on the same date.

Martinez, 28, is under contract at Old Trafford until June 2027, with an option to extend the agreement by a further season. His long-term future at Manchester United is nevertheless uncertain, amid reports that he could leave the club.

The January window could offer a solution for both sides. Manchester United would avoid allowing Martinez to enter the final year of his contract, while Barcelona could attempt to use his contractual situation to sign a defender with international experience without paying a significant fee.

Martinez has also faced a difficult period at Manchester United. He has been criticised for his performances and attracted controversy after comments about the club’s lack of investment during the previous summer.

His problems increased when he was sent off against Chelsea after receiving two yellow cards within four minutes of the second half.