Barcelona are planning a summer swoop for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez, El Mundo Deportivo reports.
Barca boss Pep Guardiola is a keen admirer of the Spain international and he could decide to step up his interest in the summer.
Seydou Keita’s expected summer exit would free up one place in midfield and the Catalans believe Javi Martinez would be a perfect fit.
Guardiola has built an excellent relationship with Athletic boss Marcelo Bielsa over the years and it is believed this could help Barcelona reach an agreement with Athletic Bilbao officials.
The 23-year-old is equally adept at playing as central defender or holding midfielder and it is this versatility that is considered one of his biggest qualities.
Martinez has a contract until June 2016 at San Mames, with his release clause standing at €40 million, meaning that he won’t come cheap should los Leones decide to cash in on their prized asset.
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