Iñigo Martínez's transfer to Al-Nassr has meant an unexpected adjustment in the transfer market for FC Barcelona. The Basque center-back, who arrived just one season ago, had managed to establish himself as one of the defensive leaders of the culé team, especially at key moments last season.
His departure comes at a time when the squad was still in the adjustment phase. In a summer when the club was already working to optimize its structure without major signings planned. The deal was finalized in a context of complete understanding between player and club.
Last summer, Iñigo had already received an offer from Saudi Arabia, but he decided to stay, attracted by the project presented to him by Hansi Flick. At that time, both parties agreed that if a similar offer came up again and the player wanted to accept it, there would be no obstacles to his departure. With the arrival of Al-Nassr's offer, the conditions were met and the transfer was given the green light.
A gap in the defense that alters the initial plan
Until before this departure, Deco had made it clear that strengthening the back line wasn't planned. However, Iñigo's departure leaves the team with four available center-backs: Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, and Eric Garcia. In addition to Jules Koundé, who has settled in as right-back.
None of them are natural left-footers, which means the profile offered by the Basque center-back is lost. To cover that gap, Flick has tried Gerard Martín as a left-footed center-back during preseason. The academy player has replied solidly in recent friendlies, providing balance in building from the back and allowing Pau Cubarsí to play on the right side, his preferred position.
Although the young defender isn't a definitive option yet, his performance has opened an interesting door for the coaching staff.
The market, an open window
For now, there aren't any imminent moves, but the sporting management keeps monitoring the situation. The profile they'd look for, if they sign someone, would be a left-footed center-back capable of playing as a full-back. Alejandro Grimaldo's name has been linked with FC Barcelona in the past, although there are currently no open negotiations and his cost would be around €15 million.
Iñigo Martínez's departure also helps free up the wage bill and makes it easier to register signings, as well as register young players like Marc Bernal and Gerard Martín himself. The club believes the squad is practically complete, although they're aware that the August transfer market usually brings unexpected moves. That's why, even though the roadmap doesn't include immediate defensive signings, Barça aren't ruling out taking advantage of any opportunity that fits both sportingly and financially.