Barcelona are reportedly considering a move for Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez following his public criticism of the club's director Jason Wilcox. The Argentine international is out of contract at the end of the season.
Outburst and Apology
Martinez criticised Wilcox after United's Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. He said: "We did a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, more players to compete because many teams bring many players as well. Atletico have an amazing team and they deserve to win today."
He added: "I expect more [investment]. 100 per cent. I expect more from our technical director [Jason Wilcox]. I have to be honest, as players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night."
Martinez has since apologised for those remarks, but reports suggest he could still leave Old Trafford.
Barcelona's Interest
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have Martinez as one of four options to strengthen their defence. Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol is described as their dream signing, though any deal would be difficult. Martinez is considered more attainable given his frustration with United's transfer activity.
With his contract expiring next summer, January represents United's final chance to receive a fee. There is an option to extend the deal by a further year, and United have been considering this to secure a larger fee if they sell.
United's Response
Manager Michael Carrick said: "It's done really. We've moved on from that. It's one of those things. Licha has come out and acknowledged the situation and, as a group, we have moved on. There's no drama for us as a group."
Carrick added: "Licha has given a statement and acknowledged that it was a mistake from him. That was it really. We understand the situation that came up after the game but we feel that has been dealt with and we've moved on."
Martinez, 28, joined United from Ajax in 2022, reuniting with Erik ten Hag. Injuries and form issues have limited his impact, with 119 appearances in all competitions. Other Barcelona targets include Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni and Real Betis' Natan.
