The summer transfer market is already heating up, and as always, Fabrizio Romano sets the pace for information. The renowned journalist specializing in transfers has dropped a bomb that directly affects FC Barcelona's planning for next season.
After a few days focused on Lamine Yamal's contract renewal, Romano has once again turned the spotlight on the moves of the blaugrana club. This time, the main character is Íñigo Martínez, who has reasons to breathe easy.
Iñigo Martínez celebrating the Copa del Rey | @inigomartinez
The threat to Íñigo had a first and last name
For weeks, there was speculation about the arrival of a new center-back to the culé squad. Specifically, Hansi Flick had requested the signing of Jonathan Tah, an international center-back from Bayer Leverkusen, whom he knows perfectly from his time in the Bundesliga.
Deco, Barça's sporting director, met with Tah last January to explore his signing on a free transfer. The German defender's contract ends in June, and both Flick and the technical staff were very interested in his profile.
Iñigo Martínez | @FCBarcelona
This possible signing caused concern in Íñigo Martínez's camp, who has had a great season alongside Pau Cubarsí. The Basque center-back has been a regular starter and has shown he is in top form, even relegating Ronald Araújo to the bench in several key matches.
At 33 years old, Íñigo is experiencing a second youth. Any addition in his position could put his continuity in the starting eleven at risk. However, the turn of events brings him peace of mind.
He chooses Bayern and rejects FC Barcelona
According to Fabrizio Romano, Jonathan Tah has made a final decision: he will sign for Bayern Munich this summer. The Bavarian club has moved ahead of Barça, closing a deal with the player for the next four seasons.
The German center-back has chosen to stay in the Bundesliga rather than wait for Barça's final call. Meanwhile, the blaugrana club couldn't offer immediate guarantees due to their financial situation and priorities in other positions.
Tah's decision nullifies one of Hansi Flick's defensive requests, who will have to rework his planning. The German coach loses one of his favorites, but the locker room gains stability with Íñigo Martínez's continuity as one of the leaders.
Barça's number 5 has shown commitment, consistency, and leadership. With the reversal in the Tah operation, everything indicates he will once again be undisputed at the heart of the defense next season.
Hansi Flick | @FCBarcelona
The defense is set: Cubarsí, Íñigo, Christensen, Araújo, and Eric García
With confirmation that there will be no center-back signing, the defense is set with the current names. Pau Cubarsí will continue to grow as a starter, Íñigo will bring experience, Christensen is reliable, and Eric García remains an alternative.
The most uncertain situation remains that of Ronald Araújo, who has lost prominence and could leave if a good offer arrives. In any case, Barça won't look for another center-back unless there is a last-minute departure.
Deco | @FCBarcelona_cat
Deco and Joan Laporta have decided to focus on strengthening other more urgent areas for the new project. The goal now is to sign a versatile forward and a creative midfielder who fit Flick's plans.
With this move confirmed, Íñigo Martínez can breathe easy and prepare for preseason with the confidence of knowing he will remain important. Fabrizio Romano's news not only halts a signing, it also reaffirms the veteran as a key piece of the new Barça.
