FC Barcelona is actively exploring a move for Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez as Hansi Flick faces defensive struggles during an injury crisis, according to Foot Mercato reports. Despite a convincing 6-1 victory over Alavés over the weekend, the Catalan club’s backline has been severely depleted by injuries to Eric Garcia, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, and Xavi Espart. Sporting director Deco previously urged the coaching staff to sign a central defender last summer without success, but the current squad shortages have forced club officials to reevaluate their defensive options for the upcoming winter transfer window.
Lisandro Martínez Faces Uncertain Future at Old Trafford
The 28-year-old Argentina international is under contract with Manchester United until June 2027, with an additional one-year option. According to reporting from Sport, his future at Old Trafford is increasingly uncertain, and club officials have already considered the possibility of allowing him to leave. Martínez has faced heavy criticism for his performances during a difficult campaign for United, notably receiving a red card during a defeat against Chelsea after picking up two yellow cards in the space of four minutes. Tensions with the club hierarchy have also been fueled by his recent public comments regarding a lack of investment during the previous summer transfer window.
Financial Constraints Dictate Barcelona Transfer Strategy
While Barcelona has set its sights on the Argentine center-back, any potential deal depends strictly on securing an affordable economic arrangement. The Athletic confirmed that the Catalan interest hinges entirely on whether a low-cost transfer can be negotiated. The club’s financial maneuvering room remains severely restricted, leaving only three to four million euros available for January additions. To fund a more expensive acquisition, the Blaugrana would be forced to sell players first, with Alejandro Baldé mentioned as a potential makeweight in negotiations.
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