Report reveals why Barcelona are letting Inigo Martinez leave for free | OneFootball

It has already been confirmed by reliable journalists that Iñigo Martínez will leave Barcelona this summer. Out of the blue, the Spaniard will be joining Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr as a free agent. Still, many are confused by this sudden move and why Barcelona are allowing him to leave for free, but there appears to be an answer to everyone’s questions.

According to the information provided by Mundo Deportivo, the real reason that Barça has allowed Martinez to leave for free is due to a pre-existing gentleman’s agreement between the club and the veteran defender. In fact, the report claims this agreement was reached last season.

Barcelona had an agreement with Martinez

Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images

The player had previously received a tempting offer from Saudi Arabia, but he turned it down at the time and trusted the project being built by Hansi Flick.

However, he reached an agreement with Barça that if a new offer similar to that one were to arrive again, then he would accept it and wanted the club to create no hurdles for his exit.

Barça reportedly agreed to this, and it seems that they have kept their word. Unfortunately, there appears to be no transfer fee involved in this move. Still, the club has reportedly managed to free up €12 million in terms of Fair Play margin with his exit.

Yet, it remains true that Hansi Flick is losing one of his most trusted soldiers. Despite his age, Martinez is a top defender and continuously showcased his ability to perform at the highest level last season. Without a doubt, this is a move that hurts the club on the pitch.