Xavi wants not only Jules Kounde but also Inigo Martinez
The Barcelona coach is just not stopping when it comes to targeting signings
Xavi wants to improve Barcelona in defence next season. Jules Kounde is the target. However he has also asked the club for Inigo Martinez. Two tricky deals but ones that could help the team take a leap forward.
Kounde’s signing is on track and could be announced in a question of hours. The deal is around 50m euros plus 10m in variables.
With Kounde tied down the centre-back spots seemed sealed. However Xavi is not ready to stop. He likes Inigo Martinez and has asked the board to work on his arrival.
Inigo’s contract is up in June 2023 and so he might not be too expensive.
The defender would love to be part of Xavi’s project and he doesn’t want to renew his deal in Bilbao. His release clause is 80m euros but the player wants to leave and Athletic would have to negotiate.
Inigo would arrive backed by the coach and his national team colleagues, with whom he has an excellent relationship.
Xavi has focused on Inigo as a way to reaching a tactical alternative of 3-4-3. Kounde, Araujo and Inigo would form the trio, with Christensen and Eric Garcia as back up.
Then there is Gerard Pique, with doubts over his condition. The club seem like they are preparing for him to miss many games this season. That’s why Xavi is interested in Inigo.
