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The Argentine star says that his compatriot has all the necessary qualities in a modern striker, although he states that he is not aware of any negotiations.
Lionel Messi says Barcelona’s rumored target Lautaro Martínez is an “impressive striker” as the Inter star continues to be linked to the La Liga team.
The 22-year-old Argentine has been linked with Barça for several months, having scored 16 goals in 31 games for Inter this season.
As a result of their outstanding Serie A campaign, Barça selected Martinez as their top priority this summer and the Catalan team is ready to offer the 22-year-old a contract worth € 10m (£ 9m / $ 11m). ) one year.
Barça chief Quique Setien said in April that “he was neither pessimistic nor optimistic” about a deal being struck, and speculation about a transfer has only grown in recent weeks.
While Messi says he is not sure if those rumors are true, the Barça star says he would be excited to play alongside his compatriot at the Camp Nou.
“If I’m honest, I’m not sure if there were or are negotiations at the moment, I have no idea,” said Messi. Sports world.
“I think I already mentioned it, that Lautaro is an impressive striker, especially because I think he is a very complete striker.”
“He is strong, dribbles well, scores goals, knows how to protect the ball … But hey, we will have to see what finally happens to him and to other players.”
It is not the first time that Messi has spoken of his admiration for the Inter star, as the Barcelona icon hailed Lautaro as “very complete” in February.
Luis Suárez, the man the striker would be signed to eventually replace, has also given his seal of approval, saying Lautaro is “very talented.”
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The Uruguayan went on to say that it was vital for Barcelona to bring in a young striker soon, as Suarez says he understands that his days as top striker for the club are numbered.
With the current season still postponed due to the coronavirus, Barça sits at the top of La Liga for 27 games.
Currently, Barça maintains a two-point advantage over rival Real Madrid, as well as an 11-point advantage over Sevilla, which occupies third place.
