Barcelona have officially announced the signing of Spanish defender Inigo Martinez on a free transfer from Athletic Club. The 32-year-old centre-back has signed a two-year contract with the Catalan giants, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2025, with a release clause set at a staggering €400 million.
Martinez’s football career began with Real Sociedad, where he made over 200 appearances before joining Athletic Club in a deal worth €32 million ($34.8m) in 2018. During his tenure at Athletic Club, he made 177 appearances and was instrumental in the club’s victory over Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup in 2021.
Despite interest from Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan, Martinez was keen on moving to Barcelona. He is seen as a replacement for Gerard Pique, who announced his retirement last November.
Upon signing for Barcelona, Martinez expressed his excitement and determination to contribute to the team’s success, stating: “I arrive with a lot of enthusiasm, wanting to contribute everything I have, to come to this great club is tremendous. Many years to finally make that leap that any player desires”. He also mentioned the confidence the club has shown in him and his desire to repay that trust by helping the team win as many titles as possible.
Martinez’s signing follows the arrivals of Ilkay Gundogan and Mikayil Faye earlier this summer, as Barcelona continues to strengthen its squad for the upcoming season.
