Experienced Spanish centre‑back Iñigo Martínez has agreed to leave FC Barcelona and join Saudi Pro League giants Al‑Nassr.
The transfer, confirmed on August 8, 2025, comes as a result of a unique contractual clause and stands as a financially significant development for all parties involved.
At 34, Martínez has elected to activate a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ embedded in his recent contract extension with Barça, permitting a free departure should a suitable offer arise from certain markets—namely the Middle East.
Barcelona have honored this agreement, allowing Martínez to terminate his contract immediately and join Al‑Nassr without a transfer fee.
Financially, the move represents a major relief for the Catalan club. Martínez’s exit frees up between €12 to €14 million in salary, clearing crucial space under La Liga’s strict financial fair play regulations.
Barcelona will now be able to register new signings—including goalkeepers like Joan Garcia and attacking talent Marcus Rashford.
From Barcelona’s sporting standpoint, the departure is impactful. Martínez was not merely a squad member; last season he ranked as one of the club’s top-minute defenders, demonstrating leadership and reliability throughout the Bundesliga-style defensive line orchestrated by Hansi Flick.
His exit has left a noticeable void, as Barcelona have ruled out pursuing a direct replacement in this window.
In Riyadh, Al‑Nassr have secured a high-caliber, battle-tested centre‑back. The move aligns with their broader strategy of attracting seasoned European talent, as the club looks to compete both domestically and on the continental stage.
Martínez joins an already star‑studded squad featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix, and others, underlining the league’s growing magnetic pull for experienced European players.