Lautaro Martinez confirms Barcelona interest was real but stays at Inter
The Inter Milan captain said the talks with Barcelona were real but loyalty to team and fans persuaded him to remain.
Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has ended weeks of silence and confirmed that persistent reports linking him to Barcelona were true, but that he ultimately decided to remain in Milan. The 27-year-old spoke about his choice at the Gran Gala del Calcio on 03.09.2026.
Why he chose to stay
Martinez acknowledged that moves to Camp Nou had been discussed in several transfer windows, but said the offer was a real possibility rather than mere speculation. He explained that connections formed at Inter weighed heavily in his decision.
"The rumours about my transfer to Barcelona were true, but in the end I wanted to stay here, with my teammates and the fans," said the 27-year-old.
The forward stressed that loyalty to the Nerazzurri prevailed. He described a deep bond with the supporters at San Siro and with the dressing room that ultimately proved stronger than the temptation of a switch to Spain.
"For me, Inter is pride, happiness and a desire to continue. I decided once again to stay here; I want to achieve great things with Inter," Martinez added, underlining his commitment to the club's ambitions.
By confirming the Barcelona interest as genuine while committing his future to Inter Milan, Martinez closes another transfer chapter and sets his focus on the season ahead as captain.
Photo: press material from the event
