Xavi admits Barça could sign Pique replacement in January window
Iñigo Martinez would be the preferred target if Athletic negotiate
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández has acknowledged that the club are already considering signing a central defender in January with a left-sided profile to cover the loss of Gerard Pique.
"We are going to see what happens," he said. "But knowing that Gerard is going, maybe we will look for a centre-back in January. We will analyse things after the Osasuna game."
Xavi's idea would be to incorporate a left-sided central defender and the chosen one is Iñigo Martínez, who has six months left on his contract at Athletic Club.
The Blaugrana were keen on him in the summer but there was no agreement with Athletic and this deal would still only be carried out if the price is reasonable.
The board, despite Xavi's wishes, have been clear that they will not pay a premium, since the Spanish international can come at zero cost in six months.
Athletic are not too willing to negotiate as they continue to talk to the footballer and his entourage about a renewal. The Basque club are always very hard negotiators and they are upset about this whole situation so things are difficult.
Despite that, at Athletic they are also clear that it would be a good time to get some revenue for a footballer who will be free next summer.
