Barcelona have reignited their interest in Real Sociedad central defender Inigo Martinez, according to reports in Spain.
The 26-year-old reportedly has a €32m release clause in his contract with La Real and Barca apparently agreed to sign him earlier this year before unexpectedly pulling the plug on a deal.
Now, Marca report they have once more struck up interest in Martinez due to a defensive crisis which sees Samuel Umtiti and out-of-favour Thomas Vermaelen as the only available central defenders for the upcoming trip to Valencia.
Gerard Pique is suspended while Javier Mascherano – who’s future at the club is unclear – is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Martinez has amassed 193 La Liga appearances for the Basques since his debut in 2011 and his current deal at the club runs until June 2021.
Part of Spain’s Under-21 European Championship winning side in 2013, Martinez has gone on to be capped four times at senior level for La Roja.
Barca have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Palmeiras defender Yerry Mina for €9m next summer.
