Source: Barça's Iñigo to join Ronaldo at Al Nassr

Iñigo Martínez is in advanced talks to leave Barcelona and join Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, according to an ESPN source. Despite having a contract with Barça until 2026, the Catalan club is prepared to release him as a free agent.

The 34-year-old defender previously received an offer from the Saudi Pro League last summer but was persuaded to stay by Barcelona’s sporting director Deco. While his departure wouldn’t generate transfer revenue, it would free up significant salary space to help Barcelona register other players under LaLiga’s financial rules. The club could utilize 60% of Martínez’s freed wages for registrations despite not yet complying with the league’s 1:1 spending rule.

This move comes as Barcelona faces urgent registration challenges with nine days remaining before LaLiga’s season start. Several players—including Joan García, Wojciech Szczęsny, Marcus Rashford, Gerard Martín, Marc Bernal, and Roony Bardghji—await registration. Additionally, Héctor Fort and Oriol Romeu remain unregistered but are reportedly not in manager Hansi Flick’s plans.

Martínez’s exit represents a sporting setback, as he was a key starter alongside Pau Cubarsí in Barcelona’s defense last season, contributing to their LaLiga and Copa del Rey titles. Signed on a free transfer from Athletic Club in 2023, he overcame an injury-plagued debut season to feature in 46 matches last campaign. Flick retains defensive options including Ronald Araújo, Eric García, and the returning Andreas Christensen, who missed much of last season injured.