- Barcelona are close to signing Spina
- Martinez set to leave for Al-Nassr
- Aim to reinforce through youth development
Barcelona are negotiating the transfer of 20-year-old Argentine centre-back Geronimo Spina from Atletico’s reserve team. Spina, who has yet to make his official first-team debut at Atletico but has been called up by Diego Simeone, is seen as a promising talent. The player’s agent met with Barcelona’s sporting director Deco this week to advance discussions. The deal is likely to include financial compensation to Atletico and a percentage of a future sale. This move comes as Barcelona prepare for the departure of veteran defender Martinez, who is set to join Al-Nassr on a free transfer. Martinez played 46 matches last season under Hansi Flick and was key in Barcelona’s domestic double run. His exit frees up around €14 million (£12m/$16m) in wages for the club.
Martinez’s departure leaves Barcelona with just four centre-backs, intensifying the need to reinforce the position. However, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has indicated a preference for investing in young talent rather than buying expensive replacements. Spina fits this strategy as a developing player who could strengthen Barcelona Atletic (the reserve team) with potential to step up to the first team. Meanwhile, Flick is relying on other centre-backs like Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen, with academy product Gerard Martin also being groomed to fill the gap. Barcelona face financial restrictions and are focused on building a squad balanced between immediate competitiveness and youth development.
Inigo Martinez made 46 appearances last season for Barcelona, contributing three goals and six assists as the team won both La Liga and the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona will continue finalising the transfer of Spina in the coming days, with the player expected to join the reserve team initially but with possibilities for first-team involvement. The club’s defensive line will face tests early in the season, with possible reliance on La Masia graduates for cover amid injuries or suspensions. Upcoming fixtures include the Joan Gamper Trophy match against Como on August 10. Martinez’s exit opens room for potential further adjustments in the squad as Barcelona manage financial regulations while maintaining a strong squad depth.
