La Liga approves contract renewal of Barcelona veteran – report | OneFootball

Barcelona have been on a renewal spree ever since the club returned to the 1:1 rule, with the club announcing key deals for players like Gavi, Pedri and Ronald Araujo among others.

During this period, Barcelona have also reportedly reached an agreement with Inigo Martinez. But the announcement has been delayed due to issues over Financial Fair Play.

La Liga approves Martinez renewal

According to Mundo Deportivo, La Liga has now finally approved the Martinez renewal, in what could be a big boost for Barcelona.

The Spanish veteran’s contract in Catalonia expires at the end of the season. But there was a clause in his contract that would have allowed Barcelona to automatically extend his deal for another year, provided he played 60% of the matches this season.

Hansi Flick, as well as the Barcelona management, were sure about activating this clause in the wake of Inigo Martinez’s stellar performances this season.

Inigo Martinez has been a key defensive outlet for Barcelona this season (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

But the lack of approval from La Liga meant that the club had to wait before announcing the renewal. However, Barcelona now have full license to officiate the contract.

La Liga’s approval came on the back of Vitor Roque’s sale at the end of February, as the Brazilian permanently joined Palmeiras for a fee of €25 million.

Roque’s departure added enough revenue to Barcelona’s coffers so that they can register Inigo Martinez under the terms of the new contract.

This is a major positive not just for Barça but for the player himself, who has shown tremendous form and stability at the heart of Flick’s high defensive line.

Despite being one of the oldest members of the Barcelona team, Inigo enjoys the full faith of Hansi Flick and it appears the Spaniard will continue playing a key role in the Barcelona team next season as well.