Inter Milan gives update as Barcelona target’s clause expires

Barcelona target Lautaro Matinez’s special release clause expires.

Barcelona target Lautaro Martinez’s 111 million euro release clause has expired as Inter Milan provides an update on the situation.

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The Argentine striker has been in fine form scoring 17 goals in 37 appearances this season while also being reportedly targetted by Lionel Messi for this summer as an attempt to bring quality talents to Camp Nou.

The 22-year-old, however, has been struggling ever since the restart. managing only one goal in the five Inter Milan fixtures, including the one where Antonio Conte’s men scored 6 goals against Brescia while Lautaro failed to score any.

Despite this, Barca are keen on securing the striker to replace aging Luis Suarez who scored a brilliant goal against Villarreal on Sunday. Inter Milan, however, are not looking to sell the talented youngster with club’s CEO, Beppe Marotta, revealing the club’s thoughts on the matter.

"“Inter do not want to sell their most important players, we are talking about a 22-year-old boy who is in a period of his career where there are constant rumors that maybe affect him. We admired an excellent Lautaro in the first half of the season. Now he must regain the serenity that will allow him to have personal satisfaction and make his contribution to Inter like he did in the first part.”Source SempreInter"

Sport reports that Lautaro’s special clause that allows any team to sign the striker for 111 million euros has expired as of July 7th but Barca remains optimistic given that they have roughly a month to secure him. Inter, however, have complete control over the matter as they can quote any amount they wish, which is bound to be more than the earlier 111m amount that Barca was already struggling to pay.

Why Barca are confident?

Perhaps the optimism comes from reports claiming that the Catalans have an agreement with Lautaro for this summer which might mean that he would likely place a lot of pressure on the Italian side if they force him to stay and hinder any transfer opportunities.

It remains to be seen whether the two clubs reach an agreement as Barca have already blocked the player for themselves meaning he will either remain at Inter or join Barca if he ever leaves. The latest offer of cash plus Junior Firpo has been rejected by the Nerazzurri but could be accepted if the cash value offered is increased to their demands.

The Spanish side have 10 more players ready to be sold in order to secure the forward thus giving Inter boss, Conte, the freedom to choose his pick but the manager is keen on keeping ahold of his young superstar as the alternatives are all aging.

Will Lautaro Martinez join Barca this summer?