Barcelona: Lautaro was considered after Julián Álvarez, but 'Marotta blocked it'

Joan Laporta has publicly confirmed that Barcelona attempted to sign Lautaro Martínez last summer. In an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport, the Barça president admitted their strong interest in the Inter Milan striker and explained why negotiations stalled before they could even begin.

"It's true, I wanted Lautaro Martínez at all costs. He is an incredible player, we didn't want to let him slip away, so I called president Marotta, but he told me Lautaro was not for sale. In any case, it wasn't down to the player to decide whether to make the move or not, because Inter wanted to keep him. So, out of respect for Beppe, whom I hold in such high esteem, we backed off," revealed the Blaugrana chief.

The Catalan club turned their attention to Martínez after Atlético Madrid closed the door on a move for Julián Álvarez, following a transfer saga that dragged on for weeks. However, Inter's uncompromising stance prevented any progress towards an official offer. Ahead of the new season, Marotta had already made his position crystal clear: "There is no scenario where he leaves Inter. We do not want to give him up under any circumstances; there is not even a conversation to be had."

Barcelona sporting director Deco also acknowledged his admiration for the Argentine international when speaking to Sky: "He was among the strikers we believed could fit Barcelona, but once Inter's president told us he wasn't for sale, we dropped the matter out of respect."

Lautaro Martínez himself addressed the speculation during the Gran Galà del Calcio, reiterating his commitment to the Serie A giants: "It's an honour for me, but right now my life is in Milan. I chose to stay at Inter because I feel happy here, and I'm determined to keep going and achieve even more."

Discussing Italian football further, Laporta also spoke highly of Fàbregas, while reaffirming full faith in current head coach Hansi Flick: "He knows our mentality and Barça's vision better than anyone. He grew up here and this will always be his home; we love his football philosophy. But right now, we have a fantastic manager in Flick."