Messi Lauds ‘Impressive’ Lautaro Amid Barcelona Rumours
Barcelona and Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has hailed Lautaro Martinez amid growing speculation over the Inter Milan forward’s future.
Martinez has been increasingly linked with a move away from San Siro this summer, with Barcelona believed to be one of his potential destinations.
The Argentine was having a good season in Italy before football was halted due to the coronavirus pandemic. He scored 16 goals in 31 games, making him one of Antonio Conte’s lethal marksmen.
Despite the reports in the media linking the former Racing Club man with Barcelona, Messi has admitted to being unsure as to whether there are negotiations taking place between the Spanish champions and Inter Milan regarding his compatriot Martinez, but insists anything can happen.
In an interview with Spanish sports outlet Mundo Deportivo, the La Masia graduate believes Martinez is a complete forward who can dribble and score.
"If I'm honest I don't know very well if there were or are negotiations right now, I have no idea," the six-time Ballon d’Or winner said.
"I think I already mentioned it, that Lautaro is an impressive striker, especially because I think he is a very complete forward. “
"He is strong, he dribbles well, he scores goals, he knows how to protect the ball. But well, we will have to see what happens finally with him and with other players.”
