Barça are already working on alternatives in case the Alessandro Bastoni route does not materialize this summer. According to the latest information, Deco met yesterday with Jon Martín’s agent to discuss the defender’s future. The Real Sociedad centre-back is not the number one priority today, but he is now a real option gaining weight inside the club.
The interest makes sense because of the moment the young defender is living. Jon Martín has established himself this season at Real Sociedad, showing maturity, anticipation and composure well beyond his age. Barça see him as a profile who can offer both present reliability and major long-term potential.
At 19, he fits the type of centre-back Barça usually value. He is 1.87m tall, plays as a central defender, is a Spain U21 international and has a contract until 2031. His release clause is set at €50 million, the figure that shapes any serious conversation about his signing.
A young centre-back already playing like a veteran
What stands out most is not only his age, but the natural way he has broken through. He has earned praise for his performances in big matches, showing personality and solidity against top-level forwards. That ability to compete without hiding explains why Barça are following him so closely.
Inside the club, they like his mix of height, calmness on the ball and defensive reading. He is not viewed as a distant prospect, but as a defender already showing signs of maturity. That is why he is considered a serious alternative if the Bastoni deal becomes too expensive or complicated.
This type of move also fits Deco’s current planning. Barça want to raise the defensive level after a season with too many doubts in big European nights. Bastoni remains the preferred option because of his hierarchy and experience, but Jon Martín offers a younger and potentially more manageable route.
Bastoni stays first, but Jon Martín gains strength
The main difference between both cases is the type of operation. Bastoni would be an immediate-impact signing, a top centre-back ready to change the defensive level from day one. Jon Martín would be a strong bet with more focus on growth and medium-term construction.
That does not mean Barça see him as a minor option. Quite the opposite. The fact that Deco has met with his agent confirms that the club has him very well placed on the shortlist. When the sporting director moves personally, the name is truly on the table.
Now it remains to be seen whether the contact turns into a real offensive in the coming weeks. The €50 million clause is not low, but it is not impossible if Barça generate sales and create Fair Play margin. Bastoni remains the priority, but Jon Martín is no longer just an idea — he is becoming a very serious alternative for Barça’s defense.
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