In the last weeks, Portuguese newspapers reported Real Madrid interest in the Sporting Portugal raising star Gelson Martins. The winger played a great game at Santiago Bernabéu in the first game of the Champions League group stage and all the eyes were on him. Los Blancos knocked Sporting’s doors to ask for the youngster, but the Portuguese side rejected to negotiate for him.
Besides, Manchester United were also interested in signing Gelson Martins. Red Devils have always had a close eye in the Portuguese market, where they signed Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani or Anderson. Now, Mourinho’s side has also asked for the Portuguese winger. But not only these two clubs are chasing Gelson Martins because FC Barcelona have also joined the bid.
Ariedo Braida, FC Barcelona consultant in international markets, has confirmed the interest in the Portuguese newspaper Record: “Gelson Martins has been observed by us. He’s a young man, with a lot of talent and Barcelona have observed and will keep looking at him. At this moment, Barcelona know what is going on in the Brazilian, Argentinian, German, Italia, French, Portuguese football… where we have referred to some players and I can’t hide Gelson Martins is one of them”, said Braida.
The Portuguese side is working to improve Gelson Martin’s contract. Currently he’s earning around 120.000€ per year but the club wants to raise the salary up to 700.000€ per year. The contract expires in 2021 with a release clause of €60M
Sporting Portugal have always sold players at a high price and Gelson Martins will be no exception. It looks like the auction for the young winger has started and the three richest teams in the world are already bidding for Gelson Martins. However, Real Madrid have an important problem because FIFA have forbidden Los Blancos to sign any player in the next two transfer windows. Which team will get Gelson Martins?
