Bayern Munich defender Martinez is attracting interest from Ligue 1.
The next couple of weeks are crucial for Bayern Munich as they look to bring back the Champions League trophy to Allianz Arena. Winning the CL trophy will be a big moment for some players in the first-team squad that are destined to play for other clubs next season.
Javi Martinez is one of the few players that are likely to part ways with Die Roten after the European competition concludes in Portugal. The Spanish midfielder is keeping all options open as he brings down the curtain on a glittering eight-year stay in Bavaria.
A recent report in Germany suggests that Martinez is subject to interest from Ligue 1. According to Kicker, Rennes is eager to bring Martinez to the club for next season. There is no mention of talks between two clubs, but the interest has been regarded as concrete.
The French club could be an exciting prospect for Martinez since they have qualified for the Champions League next season. Moreover, it will be a new adventure for the Spaniard after playing at the top level in Spain and Germany.
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Martinez has been frequently linked with a move back to Athletic Bilbao. The Spanish club publicly admitted their interest in signing him during the previous summer transfer windows. Martinez still has few years at the top, so he can still get a good move this summer across the top five leagues in Europe.
The Spaniard has fallen behind in pecking order at Die Roten in midfield and defense. Moreover, he has struggled with injuries in the past couple of seasons. Hansi Flick has a settled defense and midfield right now, so Martinez will find it difficult to get any sort of playing time next season. The club has also signed Tanguy Kouassi to improve options in defense and midfield.
Along with a restricted role, Martinez also has only one year left on his contract. Die Roten is unlikely to get a big transfer fee, but a minimal fee in the current climate will be handy. The German club will do the remaining business in the market, depending on player departures.
Martinez was the final piece of Jupp Heynckes’ jigsaw puzzle at Die Roten in 2012. He provided the steel in midfield that helped the German club to win a historic treble in 2013. The Spaniard will be fondly remembered by the Bavarian faithful, but this summer is the right time to go separate ways for the club and player. Hopefully, Martinez gets to play few minutes during the Champions League games.