Iñigo Martínez Completes Free Transfer to Al-Nassr

Barcelona center-back Iñigo Martínez has joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr on a free transfer after activating a contractual clause that allowed his departure if a significant offer from Saudi Arabia arrived. Martínez, who made 71 appearances for Barcelona since 2023 and played a key role in their domestic treble last season, was praised by club president Joan Laporta for his professionalism and leadership. His exit provides Barcelona with approximately €14 million in salary relief, crucial for registering new signings like Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford due to La Liga’s financial restrictions. Al-Nassr, who recently signed João Félix and extended Cristiano Ronaldo's contract, strengthens their squad with Martínez’s arrival. Meanwhile, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick must now turn to defenders Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, and Andreas Christensen to fill the gap left by Martínez. The move highlights the Saudi league's growing appeal to veteran European players and Barcelona's ongoing financial challenges.