Wolves transfer news: Wolves 'learn asking price' of 43-game Barcelona defender

Wolverhampton Wanderers are seemingly moving closer to making an official move for Barcelona defender Gerard Martin.

As well as Matheus Cunha being ready to finalise a transfer to Manchester United, much has been made of Rayan Ait-Nouri also departing Molineux.

The Algeria international is expected to complete a switch to Manchester City on Monday or Tuesday in order to participate at the upcoming Club World Cup.

Although Wolves could retain Hugo Bueno in their squad for 2025-26 after his loan stint at Feyenoord, more competition will be required in that area of the pitch.

Reports last week indicated that Wolves could look to sign a player in Martin who is joining Bueno in representing Spain at the Under-21 European Championship this month.

What developments have taken place?

According to Sport, Barcelona are open to cashing in on the player for a fee in the region of €12m (£10.11m).

Martin proved to be a valuable squad member at the Spanish giants during 2024-25, making a total of 19 starts and 24 substitute outings in all competitions.

One goal and six assists came from those appearances, while featuring in the first XI on 16 occasions in La Liga and Champions League emphasises that Hansi Flick regards him as trusted backup behind Alejandro Balde.

On the flip side, Barcelona have an opportunity to generate a considerable profit and are willing to consider suitable offers.

Furthermore, Wolves are allegedly prepared to hand Martin a significant wage increase if he is prepared to move to the Premier League.

What does Martin want?

As it stands, it is suggested that Martin would prefer to remain at Barcelona, where he has a contract until 2028.

That said, the presence of Balde essentially means that he will only be viewed as a rotational option when both players are fit.

Wolves have found themselves in a similar position in the past when attempting to sign the likes of Nico Gonzalez and Ansu Fati, both of whom could have earned regular football at Wolves but allegedly rejected opportunities to move to the West Midlands.

Written by
Darren Plant