Gerard Martín
Barcelona · Primera División RFEF - Group 4 · Defender · #18 · Spain · 23 yrs
Gerard Martín news
2026 World Cup winner Aymeric Laporte is reportedly a target for Barcelona in a €15M move
Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Aymeric Laporte established as one of the tournament's best defenders, becoming an undisputed starter for Spain. As a result, Barcelona are reportedly considering a €15 million move for the 32-year-old defender. After leaving Al Nassr unexpectedly in 2025, Aymeric Laporte seemed almost destined to gradually decline in his level of play. However, he rediscovered his form at Athletic Club, allowing him to arrive at the 2026 World Cup as a starter. After establishing as one of the best defenders, the 32-year-old has attracted Barcelona’s attention, as they are reportedly open to a €15 million move. Head coach Luis de la Fuente made Aymeric Laporte his undisputed starter in defense. Despite coming off a fairly inconsistent season, he formed one of the best defensive partnerships alongside Pau Cubarsí. He played 729 minutes across eight matches, helping Spain finish as the team with the fewest goals conceded. After this outstanding level, Barcelona are reportedly pursuing his signing this summer. According to Carlos Monfort, via Diario Sport, Barcelona are determined to contact Aymeric Laporte’s camp in the coming days. As one of the best left-sided defenders, they consider the 32-year-old star to be a world-class player. Even though the relationship between Athletic Club and the Blaugrana is not the best, the defender has a €15 million release clause, making him quite affordable. Aymeric Laporte could be the ideal solution to Barcelona’s defensive inconsistencies. Having already developed a good understanding with Pau Cubarsí, this partnership could provide the team with the stability it had with Iñigo Martínez. As a 32-year-old veteran, he would not block Gerard Martín’s development; instead, he would be key to helping him improve his level. Gonzalo Montiel #4 of Argentina competes for the ball against Aymeric Laporte #14 of Spain. Aymeric Laporte potential deal could force Barcelona to offload stars Ahead of the 2026-27 season, Barcelona reportedly have three untouchable defenders: Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, and Gerard Martín. However, head coach Hansi Flick would be open to bringing in Aymeric Laporte, as he fulfills the role of a veteran, offers quality in building out from the back. If they secure his arrival, the Blaugrana could need to part ways with some stars in their defensive line. Both Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araújo could be transferred if Laporte’s arrival is completed. Although neither of them wants to leave, they could be relegated to having little or no playing time, making a departure a real possibility. With the departure of both defenders, Barcelona could reduce their defensive unit to just four players, looking to give all of them significant playing time during the season. Aymeric Laporte’s arrival would not be directly linked to the departures of Araújo and Christensen. Instead, the signing of the 32-year-old star could push both defenders to leave the club if they want regular playing time. However, Barcelona have not yet managed to complete the signing of the 2026 World Cup winner, so these are still only speculations.
Inigo Martinez talks Flick, Lewandowski, Gerard Martin, Eric Garcia, Cubarsi, Pedri, Ferran, Gordon
Former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has shared an extensive assessment of the current Barça project, backing Hansi Flick’s work, naming the players he believes should lead the dressing room an...
Alessandro Bastoni may be far from Barcelona as Hansi Flick is reportedly unconvinced with the Italian defender
Alessandro Bastoni appeared to be Barcelona’s ideal defensive signing. However, the Italian now seems to be moving away from Los Blaugranas, as Inter Milan are reportedly unwilling to sell him. Alongside this, head coach Hansi Flick is supposedly unconvinced about the potential transfer. Despite Barcelona being crowned 2025-26 LaLiga champions, they have still suffered from major defensive issues. In search of greater solidity for next season, Alessandro Bastoni had emerged as the ideal solution to their problems. However, the Italian defender now appears to be moving away from Los Blaugranas, as Inter Milan are unwilling to sanction his sale. Alongside this, Hansi Flick supposedly has doubts about how well he would fit into the team. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, negotiations between Los Blaugranas and the Nerazzurri have cooled significantly in recent weeks due to a major gap in valuation. The Italian side reportedly values his departure at around €60 million (around $70 million), while the Spanish side are aiming for a deal well below that figure. In addition, Bastoni now appears close to renewing his contract, seemingly reconsidering the possibility of leaving the club. Coupled with his high transfer price, head coach Hansi Flick is reportedly not fully convinced that Bastoni is the ideal solution for Barcelona’s defense. The German manager appears to have growing doubts about whether the Italian defender truly fits the team stylistically, as the technical characteristics that have allowed him to thrive at Inter Milan differ considerably from those required at Barcelona, according to Matteo Moretto, via X, formerly Twitter. Alessandro Bastoni became one of the best defenders in the world while thriving in a three-man defensive system. Because of this structure, he usually benefits from greater support in defensive coverages and when dealing with individual mistakes. For that reason, he could struggle adapting to a two-center-back system, as he could have fewer defensive supports and could be left exposed by Barcelona’s aggressive high press. Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League. Gerard Martin and Álvaro Cortes may become key for Barcelona plans Throughout the season, Barcelona have been forced to make adjustments in their defensive line, as the departure of Iñigo Martínez left the team without a natural left-sided center back. In response, head coach Hansi Flick made a risky decision by trusting Gerard Martín in a defensive role. As a result, the team gained far more consistency and improved ball progression, with the youngster becoming a starter alongside Pau Cubarsí while also offering the versatility. After proving his differential talent, Gerard Martín now appears set to become the team’s starting left-sided defender alongside Pau Cubarsí, who could rotate with Eric García or Jules Koundé. As a homegrown player, the 23-year-old star would represent an ideal solution for the club, which could now consider allowing Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen to leave. Alongside Gerard, Álvaro Cortés could also emerge as a backup solution after impressing during his debut against Deportivo Alavés. In addition, Hansi Flick has reportedly decided to include him in Barcelona’s 2026-27 preseason, where he will fight for a permanent place in the first team, according to Mundo Deportivo. With this in mind, Los Blaugranas may once again find the solution to their defensive problems within La Masia.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Confirmed lineups for Barcelona vs Real Madrid in 2025-26 LaLiga clash
Barcelona and Real Madrid face off in the last El Clásico of the 2025-26 LaLiga season. Far from being an easy game, this matchup will determine the league champion. For this reason, both teams will field their best starting lineups, despite the absences of Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé. In the midst of a rather inconsistent season, Barcelona and Real Madrid face each other in the final Clásico of the 2025–26 campaign. Although neither managed to shine in the UEFA Champions League, today’s match will decide the LaLiga winner, making it the most important game for both teams. With this in mind, both sides will field their strongest lineups, despite the significant absences of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. Under the influence of Hansi Flick, the Blaugranas have become one of the best teams in the world. With their dominant playing style and tactical versatility, they have been quite consistent in LaLiga, sitting as sole leaders. As Lamine Yamal will not be available due to injury, head coach may bet on Marcus Rashford as Raphinha is not with competitive rhythm. Moreover, Fermín López and Dani Olmo may hold a key role to bolster the creative side. Despite Álvaro Arbeloa arriving as the supposed savior of los Blancos’ season, they have not managed to reverse their poor run of form. Not only have they failed to establish a defined playing style, but they have also struggled defensively. In addition, Kylian Mbappé’s absence could significantly impact their attacking output, leaving everything in the hands of Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, the team’s two cornerstones. While Real Madrid are eleven points behind the top of LaLiga, they need a victory in today’s match. In the event of a draw or a defeat, the Blaugrana would be crowned league winners in El Clásico, which would be painful as they have now gone two consecutive seasons without winning a trophy. Because of this, Barcelona are expected to impose their strong control of the game, while Los Blancos will look to exploit their opponents’ serious defensive issues to find goals. Pedri of FC Barcelona controls the ball whilst under pressure from Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid. Barcelona lineup vs Real Madrid Unlike Real Madrid, Barcelona arrive into today’s game with just Lamine Yamal’s absence. While the 18-year-old’s absence is sensitive, head coach Hansi Flick hold players on plein form like Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo that may lead the offense. Moreover, Raphinha has already recovered from his injury, but his lack of competitive rhythm may lead him to be benched. Nonetheless, Marcus Rashford may also play a key role. Considering this, the Blaugranas will lineup as follows: Joan Garcia; Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Joao Cancelo; Gavi, Pedri; Marcus Rashford, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo; Ferran Torres. Real Madrid lineup vs Barcelona Real Madrid aren’t having their best season in recent years. Not only is their style of play lacking spark, but they’re also dealing with numerous absences. As a result, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa will be without Arda Güler, Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo Goes, Eder Militao, Dani Ceballos, Dani Carvajal, and Ferland Mendy. With this in mind, los Blancos will be forced to make radical changes to their lineup, relying on Vinicius Jr. as their main offensive hope. With this in mind, los Blancos will play as follows: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen, Fran García; Brahim Diaz, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jude Bellingham; Vinicius Jr, Gonzalo Garcia.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid, 2026 El Clásico: Predicted lineups
Real Madrid visit Barcelona in the midst of an institutional crisis. Los Blancos are 11 points behind Barça and Flick’s team could clinch the title with a victory tonight. Barcelona predicted XI: Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, Cancelo; Pedri, Gavi; Rashford, Olmo, Fermín and Lewandowski. Real Madrid predicted XI: Courtois; Trent, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Fran […]
Inter Milan’s Giuseppe Marotta ranks Barcelona interest in Alessandro Bastoni as ‘superficial and not very concrete’
Alessandro Bastoni has been the priority to strengthen Barcelona’s defense following the departure of Íñigo Martínez. However, Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has described the Blaugrana’s interest as “superficial and not very concrete,” casting doubt on his potential departure. Throughout the 2025-26 season, Alessandro Bastoni has been labeled the absolute priority to reinforce Barcelona’s defensive line. Following his defensive mistakes with Italy in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the defender is reportedly looking to leave Serie A. In response, Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has described Barcelona’s interest as superficial and not very concrete, casting doubt on his potential departure. “Bastoni is a talented player. He’s had some bad luck in certain situations and everyone has eyes on him… He’s a great champion and that’s why top European clubs are on him. I won’t hide the fact that there’s Barcelona but it’s still very superficial and not very concrete. As we’ve always said: a player leaves when he expresses the desire to leave. Right now, Bastoni is ours, he wants to stay with us and we are happy to keep him,” Marotta said, via Radio Anch’Io Sport. Despite his recent defensive mistakes, Bastoni remains one of the best left-sided defenders in the world, providing consistency and playing a key role in build-up play. In addition, the Italian is already one of the leaders in the Inter Milan dressing room, having been an undisputed starter for more than four years. Because of this, the Nerazzurri are reportedly demanding a transfer fee of around €70 million (around $81.8 million), making his departure more complicated. In an effort to raise the quality of their defensive line, the Blaugranas are open to offering a transfer fee close to €50 million (around $58.4 million), which appears to be delaying negotiations with Inter Milan. Because of this, president Marotta’s comments highlight a clear issue: The significant difference in valuation is preventing Alessandro Bastoni’s departure. If Barcelona want to secure the Italian, they will have to increase their bid. Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League. Report: Barcelona eye two alternatives as Bastoni deal stalls Even though Gerard Martín has surprised with his impact as a central defender, Barcelona are targeting Alessandro Bastoni as a key difference-maker, aiming to bring defensive balance. Faced with ongoing difficulties with Inter Milan, they have reportedly decided to prepare alternatives, as Hansi Flick needs a left-footed defender. In this context, Evan Ndicka and Cristian Romero have emerged as alternatives to the Italian ahead of the summer of 2026. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Blaugrana have added Evan Ndicka of AS Roma to their transfer shortlist. Standing out in Serie A, the French defender would be a much more affordable option, with an estimated value of around €40 million, which they would aim to reduce further. In addition, he has proven to be one of the most consistent players in the squad, playing a key role even in build-up play and the team’s ball progression. Along with Ndicka, Barcelona are reportedly targeting Cristian Romero. Despite being the captain of Tottenham Hotspur, he is looking to leave the team in search of a competitive project. In the event of a relegation to the EFL Championship, they could seek a transfer fee of around €50-60 million or less, as he is a proven leader, and reliable, reports Diario Sport. However, Alessandro Bastoni remains the priority, so they will try to secure his signing until the very last moment.
Lionel Messi’s first message to UE Cornellà players after purchasing the club: ‘We are very excited’
Lionel Messi sent a video to the UE Cornellà players, the club he just purchased. Lionel Messi puts all his passion into the sport when he’s on the field. However, he has also found a way to share his knowledge with players at a lower level with the recent purchase of Unió Esportiva Cornellà. With the recent news of his involvement in the smaller club, his first message to the team did not take too long to come. The manager gathered the players in a room to play the video sent by Messi to support them. Messi said: “I just want to introduce myself and salute you. We are here to grow, to help you with whatever you need. We are very excited about this new project. I’m following and supporting you every weekend.” Details about UE Cornellà The bond between Messi and Barcelona can’t be denied. This was just another step in his contribution to the city in which he spent most of his years. UE Cornellà are a semi-professional club from Catalonia that is now trying to take a leap. The club was founded in 1951 (David Ramos/Getty Images) This club is not near the sphere that most people are used to in Spain, but it has a long tradition of being a formative place for local talents. There are some really meaningful examples like Jordi Alba, David Raya, Gerard Martín or Keita Baldé. UE Cornellà confirmed the purchase earlier this month, while Fabrizio Romano reported that Messi made the move for the entirety of the fifth-division club. With this investment, the lower Spanish league should have a motivation when they see this club. Another purchase was rumored There were some rumors in Spain around Messi’s potential purchase of another club before he chose UE Cornellà. This was also a small club called Terrassa FC, which denied the information. The statement said: “We categorically deny the truthfulness of its content. We have never been in contact with Messi, nor with any intermediary claiming to act on his behalf. We love this club and would never allow our pride to prevent its growth under new ownership.”