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Barcelona 'speak to Roberto Martinez about succeeding Ronald Koeman'

Barcelona 'speak to Martinez about succeeding Koeman'
© Reuters
Barcelona reportedly hold talks with Belgium head coach Roberto Martinez, as they look to replace current manager Ronald Koeman.

Barcelona have reportedly held talks with Belgium head coach Roberto Martinez, as they look to replace current manager Ronald Koeman.

The 48-year-old is believed to be on a five-man managerial shortlist drawn up by the Catalan club, along with Xavi, Jordi Cruijff, Antonio Conte and Andrea Pirlo.

According to Goal, Barca have spoken directly with Martinez about the managerial position at Camp Nou after deciding they will relieve Koeman of his duties imminently.

The report also states that the Spaniard had been identified as a managerial candidate by club president Joan Laporta before he was appointed to his role in March.

Martinez will now consider his position as Belgium boss as he had intended to lead the Red Devils at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

It is understood that Martinez could terminate his contract with Belgium, which would cost around £1.5m, though this is a figure Barcelona would be prepared to pay should they make a formal approach for his services.

The former Swansea City and Wigan Athletic manager has been out of club management since he was dismissed by Premier League outfit Everton in May 2016.

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TeamPWDLFAGDPTS
CReal Madrid38298187266195
2Barcelona38267579443585
3GironaGirona38256785463981
4Atletico MadridAtletico382441070432776
5Athletic Bilbao381911861372468
6Real Sociedad3816121051391260
7Real BetisBetis38141594845357
8Villarreal381411136565053
9Valencia381310154045-549
10AlavesAlaves381210163646-1046
11Osasuna38129174556-1145
12Getafe381013154254-1243
13Celta Vigo381011174657-1141
14Sevilla381011174854-641
15Mallorca38816143344-1140
16Las PalmasLas Palmas381010183347-1440
17Rayo Vallecano38814162948-1938
RCadizCadiz38615172655-2933
RAlmeria38312234375-3221
RGranada3849253879-4121


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