Barcelona considering January move for Inigo Martinez to tackle injury crisis

Barcelona are reportedly looking to sign a new defender in the January transfer window to solve their injury crisis.

The Catalan giants have been hit with a plethora of injuries after the international break, with several key players in the treatment room.

Xavi has been left shorthanded in defence due to the injuries of Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen.

Hence, Barca are exploring the possibility of signing a new central defender in January, and Mundo Deportivo reports that Athletic Bilbao’s Inigo Martinez is a top target.

It was previously reported that the Catalan giants had lined up Martinez as a target for the summer of 2023 on a free transfer, but they are now looking to snap him up earlier in the winter transfer exchange.

The 31-year-old has been a staple in Athletic Club’s defence over the last few years, winning the Spanish Super Cup for the 2020/21 season and twice reaching the finals of Copa del Rey.

He returned from a knee injury weeks ago and has since featured in three games in La Liga this season.

The Lions could be hesitant to sell their key player midway through the season when they are performing at an exceptional level and looking as a top-four contender.

Barca strengthened the squad on all fronts following a productive transfer window in the summer, but they have now been forced to scour the market again due to injury woes.

Xavi’s men suffered a disappointing defeat against Inter Milan in the Champions League days ago at San Siro. They welcome the Italian giants next week for the reverse fixture in a must-win game.