Valverde has insisted on a centre-back since arriving at Barcelona
The former Athletic coach is pushing for Iñigo Martinez
Vermaelen and Marlon would be the players affected
Ernesto Valverde arrived in Barcelona stressing the need to sign a centre-back. However, after talks with the signing committee, he agreed to see how things went in the United States. Three games later, he's not changed his opinion. The coach feels he needs a new defender and he has a name in mind: Iñigo Martinez.
The arrival of Martinez will accelerate the departure of the other centre-backs which, from the start, were not in Valverde's plans. The first being Thomas Vermaelen. The Belgian has played minutes during pre-season and his situation on the market has changed. In the last few days, various reports in Belgium suggest Anderlecht will make a move.
Marlon, WAITING
The more than likely signing of Iñigo could also directly affect the Brazilian defender Marlon Santos. He's had pre-season to prove he deserves a spot in the first team.
However, Barça would prefer to find a middle step. Marlon is a bet for the future and the arrival of Martinez would leave him with limited options to play and to continue to improve. The club would therefore look to find a loan move, preferably in the Spanish top flight.
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