Breaking news: Real Madrid has submitted an offer to replace Luka Modric, and it’s none other than midfielder Nicolò Barella, with a price tag that surpasses any historical market record. Barella’s response left captain Lautaro Martínez very surprised, and he expressed his harsh criticism.

Real Madrid shocked the football world with a stunning transfer offer for Inter midfielder Nicolò Barella, seeking to secure a long-term replacement for legendary captain Luka Modric. The proposed deal, which will reportedly exceed all previous market offers, sparked intense speculation and prompted a harsh response from Inter captain Lautaro Martínez, who publicly criticized Barella’s response to the offer. With the summer transfer window just around the corner, this news will dominate the headlines and could transform the landscape of European football.

Luka Modric’s departure from Real Madrid, confirmed after his move to Milan following the World Cup, has left a significant void in midfield. Modric, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, was instrumental in Real Madrid’s success, contributing to 28 trophies, including six Champions League titles, during his 13-year tenure. His departure has prompted manager Xabi Alonso to search for a world-class midfielder capable of replacing the Croatian maestro. After negotiations for Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández apparently fell through, Real Madrid turned their attention to Barella, a player long admired for his technical brilliance, grit, and versatility.

Nicolo Barella, 27, a player for the Italian national team, has established himself as one of the best midfielders in world football. Since joining Inter from Cagliari in 2019, initially on loan before his permanent move, Barella has racked up over 200 appearances, scoring 22 goals and providing 49 assists. His instrumental role in Inter’s 2020-21 Serie A triumph and their 2023 and 2025 Champions League final appearances have made him a highly sought-after player. Known for his dynamic play, precise passing, and boundless energy, Barella has been hailed as the ideal candidate to replace Modric, with the Spanish newspaper previously suggesting he would fit perfectly into Real Madrid’s system.

According to reports from Fichajes and publications on X, Real Madrid’s offer for Barella is unprecedented, with figures suggesting a price tag of €80 million, which could approach or even exceed €100 million. This figure would surpass Real Madrid’s previous offer, set with the purchase of Eden Hazard for €100 million in 2019. This colossal offer reflects Real Madrid’s determination to secure Barella, especially since his financial performance could force them to consider selling a high-value asset. Despite Inter’s reluctance to part with their midfielder Stella, the Serie A club’s valuation of between €60 and €90 million could be challenged by Real Madrid’s financial strength.

However, the most surprising twist in this transfer saga came from Barella’s response to the offer, which seemingly left Inter captain Lautaro Martínez in disbelief. Martínez, who shared the pitch with Barella in Inter’s triumphs and with the Italian national team, expressed his shock and frustration at Barella’s willingness to consider a move. In a heated statement, Martínez criticized his teammate, accusing him of a lack of loyalty to Inter, a club Barella has repeatedly expressed pride in. Martínez, who recently celebrated his 150th goal for Inter and led the team as captain, emphasized the importance of commitment to the Nerazzurri, particularly as they aim to defend their Serie A title and compete in the Champions League.

Martínez’s direct statements have sparked a wave of controversy among fans and commentators. Some argue that Barella, as a professional, has the right to explore opportunities at a club of Real Madrid’s caliber, especially given the potential to compete for more titles and join a team that boasts stars like Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde. Others argue that, given Barella’s possible departure, Martínez betrays Inter’s ambitions, especially after the club’s recent successes under Simone Inzaghi. The tension between the two players could have a domino effect on the Inter dressing room, potentially affecting the team’s morale throughout the season.

Real Madrid’s interest in Barella is not without its challenges. Inter, aware of Barella’s value both internally and externally, appears determined to retain him, with Gazzetta dello Sport highlighting how one of the squad’s players remains a huge Inter fan and is honored to wear the club’s colors. Negotiations are expected, as Real Madrid will have to balance Inter’s high valuation with Barella’s emotional connection to the club. Furthermore, competition from other European giants, such as Liverpool and Manchester City, who have already made contact with Barella, could complicate matters.

With the transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on Barella’s next move and Real Madrid’s ability to secure his goal. The outcome of this saga will not only define the future of both clubs, but will also test the resolve of two of Italy’s biggest stars, Barella and Martínez, whose relationship could be further strained. For now, the football world eagerly awaits the next chapter in this sensational transfer market story.