Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has revealed that Barcelona’s interest in signing Lautaro Martínez was genuine, but the Argentine striker’s commitment to the club prevented contacts from escalating into formal negotiations.
Marotta made his remarks ahead of Inter’s UEFA Champions League clash against Real Madrid, weeks after reports placed the Nerazzurri captain at the top of Barcelona’s shortlist to reinforce their attacking line.
“Lautaro’s behavior was exemplary; he showed a deep sense of belonging, which is why he refused to enter into any negotiations with Barcelona,” the Inter president stated.
He explained that while direct communication took place between the two clubs, there was no foundation to build upon, adding: “The two clubs spoke, but the conditions were simply not there to open the door for negotiations in the first place.”
Barcelona had originally targeted Julián Álvarez as their primary option to replace Robert Lewandowski, but after encountering Atletico Madrid’s firm refusal to sell the striker, they turned their attention to his compatriot Lautaro as the premier alternative available.
However, the player declined to even entertain the idea, while Inter firmly closed the door from their end. Marotta emphasized his captain’s central role, stating: “Lautaro represents both the present and the future of this club. If we want to win, we need players like him.”
The Italian club’s unyielding stance aligns with the immense value of their star striker, who finished last season as Capocannoniere after scoring 17 goals in 30 Serie A appearances, bringing his overall tally to 22 goals across all competitions.
Having joined Inter from Racing Club in 2018, Lautaro has gradually established himself as team captain and one of the club’s most influential icons, bound by a contract that runs until June 2029.
