Barcelona are in dire straits as they have only made a couple of signings this summer but unfortunately, they haven’t managed to register any of their new reinforcements.
On top of that, the reigning La Liga champions are on the verge of losing veteran defender Inigo Martinez, who is close to joining Saudi Pro League outfit Al Nassr as they look to strengthen their roster.
The 34-year-old had a sensational 2024/25 campaign for Barcelona as he was a key part in Hansi Flick’s high-line defense.
Courtesy of his performances last season, he was handed a new contract which specifically had an option to terminate, and he used it to facilitate a move to Al Nassr on a free transfer.
According to reports via Spanish journalist Angel Garcia, Barcelona have stepped up a shock interest in Atletico Madrid youngster Geromino Spina as a replacement for Inigo.
The Catalans have a decent line of centre-back options with Pau Cubarsi becoming a mainstay for Flick in the backline followed by the likes of Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia.
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Inigo saw his gametime diminish next season, which may have forced him to hop on to a new adventure in Saudi Arabia.
Therefore, Barcelona are also looking for a younger alternative in Spina to replace the veteran as gametime will be scarce and he will mostly be a squad option in Camp Nou.
Who is Atletico Madrid youngster Geromino Spina?
Spina is a 20-year-old Argentine centre-back who featured in 20 matches for Atletico Madrid’s B team in the Primera Federacion Group II.
🚨| BIG BREAKING: Barcelona is close to signing Atlético Madrid youth defender Gerónimo Spina. pic.twitter.com/QTtPurS6sj
— Barça Worldwide (@BarcaWorldwide) August 8, 2025
The young defender showed some signs of promise in the last season and is currently contract with Atletico Madrid until 2027.
Spina is yet to make his first team debut for the Rojiblancos, but he broke into matchday team sheet as an emergency backup for manager Diego Simeone after a sudden injury to Robin Le Normand.
The 20-year-old’s camp were taken by surprise with Barcelona approach as this was Spina’s first season with Atletico Madrid B team after moving from Estudiantes de La Plata in 2023.
While the deal is still only in exploratory stage, Barcelona are expected to reach out to Atletico Madrid but the Rojiblancos are only expected in a permanent sale and won’t entertain any loan deal for Spina.
They may also include a sell-on or a buyback clause in the 20-year-old’s contract if his move to Camp Nou materializes.
So, it remains to be seen what step Barcelona sporting director Deco takes in pursuit of the talented Argentine defender.
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