Atletico Madrid interested in €20 million Barcelona defensive target – report | OneFootball

Arnau Martinez is one of the hottest names in La Liga right now. The 19-year-old right-back has been monumental to Girona’s run in the Spanish top flight so far, and has established himself as a regular starter under Michel.

His bright displays have attracted interest from several clubs, and Mundo Deportivo report that Atletico Madrid are one of the parties interested. Diego Simeone’s side see him as an able asset for the right flank, especially given his cutting-edge in the final third.

The Rojiblancos, for the time being, are far from the driver’s seat in pursuit of Martinez. Barcelona are the party most strongly linked with the full-back and see the former La Masia trainee’s return as the perfect solution to their problems at right-back.

Atletico Madrid face one more hurdle in their pursuit of the Spaniard in addition to the Catalan interest – Manchester City.

The Premier League champions are owned by the same group as Girona and thus have a direct internal route to secure his services. And it said that Pep Guardiola might consider signing him even though he has the likes of Kyle Walker and Joao Cancelo at his disposal.

Martinez has scored two goals and provided one assist for Michel’s side in 16 La Liga appearances so far this season. Further, he averages 1.2 key passes and nine defensive actions per game, and has created two big chances.

The 19-year-old’s contract with Girona runs until June 2025. Though two years remain on his deal, there is notably a €20 million release clause on his contract that can be triggered by any party interested.