Official: Barcelona confirm their second signing of summer transfer window

The champions of LaLiga have announced their second signing of the summer 2023 transfer window.

On Wednesday morning, FC Barcelona announced the signing of defender Inigo Martinez.

The 32-year-old has joined the club on a free transfer from Athletic Club. He has signed a two-year contract, which includes a €400 million release clause.

Martinez brings a wealth of experience with him, having played 357 games across a 13-season LaLiga career. He managed 22 goals and seven assists. Barca will hope he can provide veteran leadership to their squad, as they prepare to defend their Spanish league crown in 2023/24.

To date, Barcelona have signed two players since the end of last season. These are Martinez and Ilkay Gundogan. The latter arrived last week as a free agent on an initial two-year deal, with a €400 million buyout clause.

The next potential signing for Xavi Hernandez’s side is Victor Roque. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 18-year-old forward could join in January 2024. He currently plays for Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, whose season won’t end until December.

Martinez might make his first appearance for Barcelona on July 22. Barca will play the Italian team Juventus in a pre-season friendly in Santa Clara, California. The game will kick-start the club’s summer tour in the United States. They’re also scheduled to face Arsenal (July 26), Real Madrid (July 29), and AC Milan (August 1) in the US.