Barcelona Officially Get Inigo Martinez from Athletic Bilbao

– Barcelona officially signed Spanish national team defender Inigo Martinez without a transfer fee on Wednesday (5/7/2023) after his contract with Athletic Bilbao was not renewed.

“Barcelona and Inigo Martinez have reached an agreement to join after the expiry of his contract with Athletic Bilbao,” the Catalan club said in a statement on their website.

Barcelona has signed the 32-year-old player for two years.

“Inigo will sign a two-year contract that will expire on June 30, 2025, with a release clause worth 400 million euros (around Rp. 6.54 trillion).”

Martinez is a player who has extensive experience in Spanish and European competitions. He previously played for Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao, making a total of over 350 LaLiga appearances and 22 goals scored.

In addition, he has also made 20 appearances for the Spanish national team and scored one goal since his senior debut in 2013.

Barcelona explained that Martinez is a complete defender and will improve the defense under Xavi Hernandez.

“Martinez is a defender who is tough in the air, capable of building attacks from behind, and has solid defensive skills,” added Barcelona.

Apart from his abilities, Martinez is also known for his leadership and competitive spirit on the field.

Martinez is Barcelona’s second signing of the transfer market this summer after Ilkay Gundogan, who was also brought in on a free transfer.

Barcelona are confirmed to be in the midst of signing new players, with reports suggesting that young Brazilian striker Vitor Roque has agreed to join the Spanish club.