Barcelona push to register 23-year-old versatile star before Levante clash

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are moving with urgency to have Gerard Martin available for their upcoming league match against Levante. 

Although the club’s objective is to register all remaining players by August 30th, Martin is expected to be the first on that list.

Interestingly, the defender’s registration is tied directly to the exit of Oriol Romeu. So far, Barcelona have not been able to finalise his departure, but progress is being made. 

Among the operations currently underway, Romeu’s exit is the closest to completion and would clear the way for Martin’s inclusion in the squad for the trip to the Ciutat de València.

The club had initially considered prioritising the signing of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, but that operation requires greater financial flexibility under La Liga’s fair play rules. 

Romeu’s exit, by comparison, would generate enough margin to allow Barcelona to immediately register Martin without delay.

Barcelona continue to be hopeful

Romeu’s situation is being handled carefully. A direct transfer has not been an option, and Girona’s earlier opportunity to exercise a buy clause was not taken up. 

Oriol Romeu’s exit is key to Gerard Martin’s registration. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Instead, Romeu is now negotiating with Barcelona to agree on the financial settlement of the final year of his contract. 

Once that is resolved, he will be free to decide his next destination, with a potential return to Girona still on the table.

What is being discussed?

The settlement discussions focus on how much Barça will cover to balance the difference between his current wages and what he would earn at his new club. 

This arrangement is seen as the most viable way to accelerate his departure and immediately unlock the registration of Gerard Martin.

Barcelona remain optimistic that Romeu’s exit can be resolved in time, allowing Martin to make his league debut against Levante. 

For Hansi Flick, having the youngster available would be another boost as he continues to shape his squad for the season ahead.