Transfer Centre

Barcelona, Real Madrid 'both keen to sign Arnau Martinez'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 21 October 2023

Barcelona and Real Madrid are among a number of major European clubs keen on Girona defender Arnau Martinez, according to a report.

Barcelona and Real Madrid are both reportedly interested in signing Girona defender Arnau Martinez during next summer's transfer window.

The right-back spent six years in Barcelona's academy system before leaving for L'Hospitalet, and he then moved to Girona in 2018, progressing from the youth set-up to the first team.

Martinez has featured on 102 occasions for his current side in all competitions, scoring six goals and registering 13 assists in the process.

The 20-year-old's performances last season, when he managed three goals and four assists in 35 appearances, are believed to have caught the eye of a number of clubs, leading to speculation surrounding his future over the summer transfer window.

Girona kept hold of the Spaniard, though, and he has made five appearances in La Liga this season, contributing one assist in the process.

Girona's Arnau Martinez pictured on January 28, 2023 © Reuters

The White and Reds have been the surprise package in La Liga during the 2023-24 campaign, picking up 22 points from their nine matches, which has left them second in the table.

Michel's side will have their eyes on a possible European spot this term, but Martinez will only have one year left to run on his contract at the end of the season, and his release clause is believed to be as low as €20m (£17.4m).

According to 90min, the two powerhouses of Spanish football are keen on the defender, with Real Madrid looking for a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal.

The report claims that Barcelona are also firmly interested despite the fact that the Catalan side are likely to push to sign Joao Cancelo permanently from Manchester City next summer.

Barcelona defender Joao Cancelo on September 23, 2023 © Reuters

Cancelo's future could have a direct impact on Martinez's, as Man City are also said to be keen on the Girona defender, and a move for the Portugal international to Camp Nou could put the English side in a strong position to move for him as back-up to Kyle Walker.

Girona are part of the City Football Group, meanwhile, which would also mean that the Premier League champions could be the favourites if they decide to actively pursue him.

Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are also said to have scouted Martinez this season, while Bayern Munich are believed to be among his admirers elsewhere.

Martinez primarily plays as a right-back but is also capable of operating as a centre-back and further forward in midfield, with his versatility said to have made him an even more attractive option in the market.

The Spain Under-21s international is expected to be in the Girona squad for Sunday's clash with Almeria, but he has been unable to get off the bench in his side's last two league matches.