Barcelona have announced the signing of centre-back Inigo Martinez on a free transfer.
The 32-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Camp Nou in recent months, and his arrival at the Catalan club has now been confirmed, with his deal at Athletic Bilbao expiring on June 30.
Martinez started his professional career with Real Sociedad, representing the club for seven years, before moving to Athletic Bilbao, spending five years with the Lions.
A 20-time Spain international, the centre-back has made 357 appearances in Spain's top flight during his professional career, scoring 22 goals and registering seven assists in the process.
Meanwhile, he departed Athletic with a record of eight goals and seven assists in 177 appearances.
© Reuters
The defender struggled with a troublesome foot problem and calf issue during the 2022-23 campaign, which restricted him to just 18 appearances, and his time at San Mames has now come to a close.
"An agreement has been reached between FC Barcelona and Inigo Martínez for the player to join the club after his contract with Athletic Club ended," read a statement on Barcelona's official website.
"The player is set to sign a two-year deal that ends on June 30, 2025, with the release clause set at €400m (£343m).
"The club will provide further details about Inigo Martinez's presentation as a new first team player in due course."
© Reuters
Meanwhile, in the same statement, Barcelona described Martinez as "being strong in the air", as well as "a great ball carrier and defensively solid".
"Being strong in the air, a great ball carrier and defensively solid will improve Barca's backline even further, which will also have a left-footed player to call on. A veteran of many battles, Inigo Martínez is also known for his leadership and competitive nature," read the message.
Speaking to BarcaTV, the Spaniard added: "I come with a lot of enthusiasm to give everything I have. Joining this great club means a lot to me. I finally took the leap that any player would want."
Martinez has become Barcelona's second signing of the summer, following Ilkay Gundogan to Camp Nou, with the experienced midfielder arriving on a free transfer from Manchester City.
The Spaniard has joined Marcos Alonso, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia as being options for head coach Xavi in the middle of the defence.
Matt Law
