Barcelona centre-back target offers update on his future: “Still not clear at all”

Inigo Martinez is one of many players are targeting by Barcelona ahead of the January transfer window. With his current contract at Athletic Club expiring at the end of the season, many expect Barça to make a move for him in the winter transfer window, following Gerard Pique’s retirement.

However, in a recent media interaction, Martinez offered an update on his future, suggesting that he is happy at his current club and has no intention to talk about his contract situation just yet.

“The subject is a bit tiring, but these are things that happen. I am happy here and I feel very comfortable. My future is still not clear at all. It is neither the time nor the place to talk about these issues of my renewal. I do not lose focus and I’m always giving my best for Athletic,” he told Onda Vasca (h/t MARCA).

Formerly of Real Sociedad, Martinez has been plying his trade for Athletic Club since 2018. During his ongoing spell at the club, he has made over 160 appearances for the club, establishing himself as one of the best defenders in La Liga.

The veteran’s success has not gone unnoticed, with Barcelona keen on securing his services, either in January or at the end of the season.

Martinez, though, is not thinking about his future and remains committed to Athletic Club.  “I have a contract until the end of the season, I will fight and that is what God wants. I am very happy here, I come every day with a smile and I enjoy Bilbao. I feel loved,” he said.

Inigo Martinez’s comments came in the aftermath of Athletic Club’s 3-0 win over Real Valladolid, in what was the club’s final league game before the club football goes into an early hiatus. Many expect the veteran centre-back to be included in the Spain squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup.