La Liga rivals set sights on 22-year-old Barcelona breakthrough star – report | OneFootball

Real Betis have been home to many former Barcelona players in the past.

Even the current rendition of the Betis squad has many players who have played for the Catalans in the past, including Marc Bartra, Hector Bellerin and Abde Ezzalzouli, along with Vitor Roque, who is on loan.

But it appears Betis are eyeing more Barcelona talents in an attempt to strengthen the squad further.

Betis considering move for Gerard Martin

According to SPORT, Real Betis have identified Gerard Martin as a potential target as Manuel Pellegrini looks to shore up his options in the defensive unit.

A left-back by trade, Martin currently serves as an alternative to Alejandro Balde. Following the exit of Marcos Alonso in the summer, the youngster has found his place in Flick’s setup.

However, Martin has featured in just ten competitive matches this season, only three of which have come as starts.

Pellegrini sees Martin as the ideal investment (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Martin’s lack of game-time has put Real Betis on high alert, with the Verdiblancos prepared to sign the player as a long-term investment.

Betis’ plan to sign Martin

The report adds that Betis already have a plan in place, in their bid to sign Gerard Martin.

Pellegrini’s men aim to woo the Barcelona youngster by giving him the opportunity to become a vital part of Betis’ setup, which could lead to more game-time at the highest level.

Betis are ready to sign the Barcelona starlet on a permanent deal, though they are also open to snapping him up on a loan deal from next season.

The onus, therefore, is on Barcelona on whether or not they can convince Martin to stay in Catalonia.

The Blaugrana are already working on his renewal, so it will be interesting to see how things transpire in the coming months.