Inter chief, Javier Zanetti came out last month to confirm that all talks over Martinez’s departure had been put off.
That was a clear message to Barcelona that the player was not for sale. And now, Martinez himself has cleared up any confusion over a move to Spain.
The player’s representatives was seen visiting the Inter headquarters last weekend. Rumours erupted that a bid from Real Madrid or Barcelona had been accepted. However, Martinez’s agent, Beto Yaque revealed that it was just a regular visit and his client will be staying at San Siro for the upcoming campaign.
“It was just a courtesy visit, that is all,” he told Tuttomercatoweb. “There is nothing with Real Madrid and Barcelona. Lautaro is staying here at Inter.”
This will be a blow to Barcelona who are due to lose Luis Suarez this summer. Apparently, a deal with Juventus is close for the Uruguayan striker but Barca have no leads on a replacement.
Martinez was their top choice after scoring 22 goals for Inter last season. His release clause of €111m expired this July with three years still left on his current deal.
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