Barcelona are hoping to sign Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez with a structured contract in January.
Barca Universal reports that the Spanish giants are considering the option of offering Martinez a lower initial salary that will be increased in subsequent seasons.
The Argentine centre-back is in the final year of his contract at Manchester United and he could leave the club for free if the Red Devils do not trigger the one-year extension clause.
The 28-year-old has been a key component of Manchester United's defence this season, racking up 11 appearances in all competitions.
Barcelona want Martinez in January
Barcelona view the Manchester United defender as an experienced centre-back who can provide solid defensive cover.
The La Liga leaders have struggled with injuries to their key defenders this season, with Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde currently on the treatment table.
The report stated that a potential move for Martinez could be initiated in January with Barcelona having a pre-contract agreement with the Argentina international and then finalise the contract when his current deal at Old Trafford expires in Junw.
Hansi Flick's side are not alone in Martinez's pursuit and they will be hoping to beat the likes of Atletico Madrid and AS Roma who have also been linked with the 28-year-old.
Martinez's situation at Old Trafford
The 28-year-old's future was clouded with uncertainty earlier in October following his public criticism of the Manchester United leadership after a UEFA Champions League match in Madrid but he immediately issued an apology.
As a result of his straight red card against Chelsea, he will miss the Red Devils' Premier League match against Aston Villa on Sunday as they chase their first league win since August.
This season, Martinez's defensive contributions have yet to have a direct impact on Michael Carrick's team as they are presently battling in the Premier League relegation zone and they are one of the teams with the most goals conceded (15 goals).
