Gerardo Martino: 'Carles Puyol is irreplaceable'

Barcelona head coach Gerardo Martino has said that it will not be possible to replace captain Carles Puyol, who is leaving the club at the end of this season.

Martino admitted that he had not yet discussed summer transfers with the club's board, but agreed that a centre-back to replace Puyol was now the highest priority.

"Puyol is one of those players you can't replace. He has left his mark at this club," Martino told reporters at a press conference.

"I haven't discussed transfers with the club. What is clear is that, now Puyol leaves, we'll need to sign a centre back."

Striker Lionel Messi recently said how much Puyol was appreciated at Barca.