Barcelona’s transfer splurge continues as they ‘make offer of £12m for defender Inigo Martinez’

Barcelona have reportedly put in an offer for what would be the sixth centre-back in their squad. 

The Catalan giants have had a busy summer with five new additions, including central defenders Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde.  

Spanish publication Sport though have reported that the strengthening of their central defense has not ended there, as they have put in a £12million offer for Athletic Bilbao’s Inigo Martinez.

Should Barcelona complete the deal he would be Xavi’s sixth centre-back at the club

It’s said the bid was submitted on Tuesday night, as big-spending Barcelona look to continue their transfer splurge. 

Martinez is out of contract next summer and Bilbao are hopeful they can sign the player to a new deal.

The 31-year-old though has rejected all advances from the club until now, as he looks for a fresh start elsewhere.  

Barcelona have made a number of moves this summer including Andreas Christensen

Barcelona signed another centre-back in the form of long-time Chelsea target Jules Kounde

Despite Barcelona’s bid, it’s said that it remains unlikely that Bilbao will accept the offer as they stand more to lose the in the player than they do financially.

As well as Christensen and Kounde, Barcelona also have Gerard Pique, Ronald Araujo and Samuel Umtiti who can all play at centre-back. 

If they were able to pull off a move for Martinez, it could indicate a change of style for Xavi’s side.

Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha are two other big name signings made this summer

Barcelona only have two natural full-backs – Sergino Dest and Jordi Alba – although Sergi Roberto has also played there before.

It’s possible therefore that Xavi could look to implement a back-three, if the club were to have a…