Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone reportedly 'dreams' of signing Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez this summer.
The 33-year-old made the move to Barcelona on a free transfer in July 2023 following the expiration of his contract at Athletic Bilbao, and he has made 56 appearances for the Catalan side since his arrival, scoring three goals and registering four assists in the process.
Martinez has been a vital player for Hansi Flick's side this season, featuring on 31 occasions, scoring three goals and registering four assists, with the centre-back impressing for a Barcelona team challenging on three fronts.
There is uncertainty when it comes to the Spain international's future, though, as his current deal is due to expire this summer.
Barcelona sporting director Deco recently revealed that Barcelona are planning to keep hold of the experienced defender, with a clause in his contract potentially being activated.
"Inigo has a clause in his contract that he could activate, but we have been clear about him for a few months now. He is a player who contributes a lot to the team and the dressing room. He is a leader and a player that we want for next season," Deco told SPORT.
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Atletico boss Simeone 'wants Martinez this summer'
According to Fichajes, Atletico view Martinez as their leading defensive target for this summer, with head coach Simeone determined to bring him to Wanda Metropolitano for the 2025-26 campaign.
Martinez started his professional career with Real Sociedad, making 238 appearances for the club before moving to Athletic Bilbao in 2018, making 177 outings for the Basque team in all competitions.
The Spaniard has 397 La Liga appearances under his belt, but he is relatively inexperienced when it comes to the Champions League, featuring on just 15 occasions in the competition, with 10 of those coming for Barcelona.
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Atletico again have the best defence in La Liga this season
Atletico could have a historic season, with Simeone's side currently top of the La Liga table, while they are in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey and last-16 stage of the Champions League.
Julian Alvarez has been in sensational form this season following his arrival from Manchester City last summer, but the capital outfit's success has again been built on a very strong defensive unit.
In Jan Oblak, Atletico have one of the leading goalkeepers in world football, while Jose Gimenez, Clement Lenglet and Robin Le Normand have been important in the centre-back spots during the 2024-25 campaign.
The Red and Whites have only conceded 16 times in their 26 league matches this season, which is the best record in the division, but Martinez is allegedly wanted to add further steel to the backline.
Lenglet is currently on loan at Atletico from Barcelona, and it is understood that Martinez is wanted over the Frenchman despite some strong performances for the capital outfit during the current season.
Matt Law
