The Paris club has shown interest in one of the most promising players from Real Madrid’s own youth department. Now the Spaniards have responded very hard.
Joan Martínez has become the latest name in what looks to be a new power struggle between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. The centre-back from Castile is admired in Paris, and in Valdebebas they have responded in a nutshell.
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According to MundoDeportivo, Real Madrid’s stance is crystal clear: whoever wants him must trigger his buyout clause. And the price tag is a staggering 150 million euros – a sum set to scare away any speculators.
Joan Martínez – the jewel PSG are chasing
Joan Martínez has yet to officially make his debut for the first team, but his development has not gone unnoticed. Real Madrid consider him one of the most promising centre-backs “La Fábrica” has produced.
PSG have set their sights on the young Valencia-born defender, who himself has stated that he is a big admirer of Sergio Ramos. His profile fits perfectly into PSG’s strategy of capturing young talent before they really break through.
It is said that Luis Campos, sporting advisor at the French club, is behind the interest. The Portuguese has a habit of acting quickly when he sees a potential for growth and increased market value. But Real Madrid are not considering an easy exit. Joan Martínez has a contract until 2029 and a buyout clause of 150 million euros – a clear sign of the club’s confidence in him.
Doesn’t want another unpleasant case in La Liga
Real Madrid’s strategy with the academy players has changed. The club accepts selective sales, but wants to retain control through rights, percentages or buy-back options. In the case of Joan Martínez, however, the first message is clear: he is neither frozen out nor without a future in Valdebebas.
The centre-back has overcome difficult periods and is still on the first team’s radar. In La Liga, where the physical demands increase with each season, his size attracts attention. PSG are fully aware of this, which is why they have acted even before Martínez has made a firm breakthrough at senior level – before his price could potentially skyrocket even more.
PSG considers very complicated operation
PSG have muscle, but they still don’t have endless money. Paying 150 million euros for an 18-year-old defender would have been an extreme move. In France, his potential, personality and ability to dominate his own field are valued. In addition, there is the training in Real Madrid – a stamp that usually increases the value of any player.
Joan Martínez possesses qualities that are highly valued in today’s market: he is young, strong, winning and still has tactical development potential. The challenge lies in convincing Real Madrid. The White club do not need to sell, and they know that Martínez can be an important piece in the medium term.
“The clause that sets the market pace”
The sum of NOK 150 million is no coincidence. Real Madrid use it as a shield – but also as a mark to Europe’s biggest clubs. PSG can inquire, push or explore creative solutions. What doesn’t seem possible is a cheap sale – not even with a deal based on variables.
In Valdebebas, typical loan scenarios are also not ruled out if the player needs playing time elsewhere. A loan or a transfer with a buy-back option would have been other scenarios. The decision will also depend on the first team’s defensive planning. If there is a shortage of stoppers, his path to the first team can be accelerated. If there are too many people around, the commandments will come.
For now, Real Madrid has all the cards in their hand. PSG’s interest confirms the player’s value, but it does not change the price. Joan Martínez knows that his name is circulating in Europe. Real Madrid’s message is clear: Martínez will only disappear if someone dares to pay 150 million euros.
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