Barcelona has made inquiries about Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez as it considers strengthening the left side of its central defense in January.

According to TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey, the Argentina international has indicated that he is prepared to leave Old Trafford next summer. Barcelona’s interest could bring that departure forward, with initial conversations about his availability already taking place.

Martinez’s contract runs until June 2027, although United can extend it for another year. That option gives the club control over the timing of a possible exit and means Barcelona cannot simply assume he will become available on a free transfer.

Mundo Deportivo also identifies Martinez as a candidate, reporting that defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have prompted Barcelona to revisit its defensive recruitment plans. The preference is for an experienced player capable of contributing immediately.

Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol and Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni remain admired, but both would be difficult to sign midway through the season. Real Betis center-back Natan is another option, with the Spanish newspaper placing his potential price at around €30 million plus add-ons.

Martinez offers experience at club and international level, having been part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad in 2022. Mundo Deportivo notes, however, that his injury history would require careful consideration. For a team seeking immediate help in January, his availability would be an important part of any assessment.

United, meanwhile, is already looking at changes to its own defense. Bournemouth’s Adrien Truffert is a target for next summer, while Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall remains under consideration as the club reviews its options on the left.

Bailey reports that Barcelona’s ability to complete a January signing will depend on departures and the financial room they create. A permanent exit for Ronald Araujo is one of the possibilities being explored to help fund a new defender.