Lautaro Martinez explains reason for Inter stay after confirmed Barcelona interest

Lautaro Martinez has confirmed Barcelona approached him during the summer but says his desire to remain at Inter ultimately ended the possibility of a move.

Lautaro Martinez has confirmed that Barcelona made an approach for him during the summer transfer window, but the Inter captain chose to remain in Italy despite the opportunity to join the Spanish giants.

The Argentine striker addressed the speculation publicly while speaking at the Gran Gala del Calcio, bringing an end to months of uncertainty over whether Barcelona had genuinely explored a move for him.

“The rumours were true, but I have very clear ideas,” Martinez said, making it clear that his decision was ultimately driven by his commitment to Inter. “I wanted to stay here with my teammates and with these magnificent fans,” he added.

Martinez’s comments are significant because Barcelona spent much of the summer searching for attacking reinforcements, with their pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez becoming a major storyline.

Reports subsequently indicated that Lautaro emerged as one of the alternatives as the Catalan club assessed other options for their frontline. Barcelona eventually secured Gabriel Jesus, while their interest in Alvarez remains a longer-term possibility.

Atletico, however, have firmly resisted the prospect of selling their Argentine star to Barcelona, meaning the Catalans may need to continue exploring alternatives.

For Martinez, the decision to reject Barcelona appears to have been straightforward. The 29-year-old has established himself as one of Inter’s most important players and continues to enjoy a strong relationship with the club’s supporters.

He went further in explaining his attachment to the Nerazzurri, saying he would “stay forever” provided he remains wanted and useful to the team. “Inter for me is all pride, happiness and desire to continue,” Martinez said.

“I have chosen once again to stay here. I want to do great things at Inter.” His declaration effectively closes the door on the summer speculation and reinforces his status as a central figure in Inter’s plans.

For Barcelona, meanwhile, the confirmation provides a clearer picture of another attacking target they were unable to land as the club reshaped its forward options.

Martinez’s decision also demonstrates that even Barcelona’s interest was not enough to tempt every elite striker away from an established role at another European heavyweight.