According to Calciomercato, Javier Zanetti has dismissed rumours claiming that Barcelona are interested in the services of Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez this summer. “No offer has arrived at Inter. Messi asked him for Barcelona? I have a good relationship with Leo, who would leave him with me a little longer.”, said the Inter vice-president when speaking to Tyut Sport.
This could serve as a massive blow for the Barcelona fans but should the Catalans actually make a move for this talented forward this summer?
Lautaro Martinez’s spell at Inter Milan
Regarded as one of the most talented up and coming Argentine players, Martinez made a move to Inter last summer from Racing Club for a fee of €14 million. He endured a slow start to his career at San Siro, featuring in only 442 minutes of league football during the first half of the campaign.
However, the youngster made full use of the opportunity when star striker Mauro Icardi was stripped of the captaincy and was sidelined for a few matches earlier this year, and he has since become a vital asset to the Inter attack. Indeed, Martinez ended the campaign making 27 Serie A appearances, during which he scored six goals and provided two assists.
And with Icardi likely to leave the club this summer, one could be forgiven for thinking Martinez will play a vital role for the club going forward despite the change of managers.
What can Martinez bring to the table?
Nicknamed “The Bull”, Martinez is known for his robust style of play and an imposing figure that allows him to sustain pressure from the opposing defenders. He is also quick and is capable of providing a genuine threat from counter-attacks while his spatial awareness makes him a tactically astute striker.
Furthermore, the 21-year-old is very good on the ball that enables him to keep hold of possession while his tally of 2.4 shots on goal per game is indicative of his willingness to test the goalkeeper.
Should Barcelona make a move for Martinez?
Barcelona are definitely in need of attacking reinforcements this summer, especially someone who can provide backup for Luis Suarez, who is nearing the final phase of his career. Martinez, in that regard, could be a smart choice by Ernesto Valverde.
However, it’s unlikely that Inter will be willing to let go of their prized asset that quickly. As iterated earlier, the Argentine is set to play a vital role for the Italian giants following the likely departure of Icardi, and though Antonio Conte is keen on securing the services of Romelu Lukaku this summer, Martinez definitely has a future at the club at least for the coming years.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
