Barcelona target Lautaro Martinez is Inter Milan's 'present and future,' insists Zanetti

With an ing squ, Spanish giants Barcelona have been striving hard to bolster ir attacking strength. With Luis Suarez past his prime, Barcelona are reportedly looking to replace him with Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, with several rounds of negotiations being worked at, but to avail. Inter Milan vice-president Javier Zanetti has w ruled out a possible Lautaro Martinez transfer to Barcelona. 

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Inter Milan vice-president rules out Lautaro Martinez transfer to Barcelona 

During an interview with Fox Sports, Inter Milan vice-president Zanetti rubbished Lautaro Martinez transfer talk linking him with Barcelona. He insisted that Argentina international will t leave Serie A giants. Zanetti went on to reveal that several clubs or than Barcelona are also interested in sealing Lautaro Martinez transfer. 

However, 23-year-old is happy with life in Italy, Inter Milan vice-president stressed. Zanetti went on to describe Lautaro Martinez as " present and future" of Inter Milan. striker is aware that he's at one of best clubs in world, believes Zanetti. 

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Memphis Depay a cheaper alternative to Lautaro Martinez 

Until sacking of manr Quique Setien, Barcelona were keen on sealing Lautaro Martinez transfer. However, Inter Milan were firm on ir demand that Catalan giants abide by his release clause and pay it in full. His release clause is estimated at a massive €111 million, which Barcelona weren't willing to pay citing financial crisis induced by pandemic. 

A report by Mundo Deportivo insists that Ronald Koeman has been weighing option of signing Lyon striker Memphis Depay. current manr prefers Depay, having seen him play under him during his time as Nerlands manr. Besides, Inter Milan's demands of abiding by release clause and Depay's low transfer value makes him a cheaper alternative to Argentine striker. Lyon are also said to be open to negotiations for Depay. Barcelona have reportedly contacted his nt ahe of tabling an offer.

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Lautaro Martinez's contract ends in 2023 

Lautaro Martinez is one of best strikers in Serie A at moment. Having emerged onto scene last season under Antonio Conte, he has formed a formidable partnership with Romelu Lukaku. In all, he found back of net 21 times previous season, coupled with seven assists across all competitions. His contract expires only in 2023 and it will, refore, be difficult for Barcelona to convince Inter Milan to sell him, at least this summer. 

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Im courtesy: Lautaro Martinez Instagram