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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
1Real Madrid32256170224881
2Barcelona32217464372770
3GironaGirona32215667402768
4Atletico MadridAtletico32194959382161
5Athletic Bilbao321610652302258
6Real Sociedad321312746341251
7Real BetisBetis32121284038248
8Valencia32138113534147
9Villarreal32119125155-442
10Getafe32913103844-640
11Osasuna32116153746-939
12Sevilla32910134145-437
13Las PalmasLas Palmas32107153039-937
14AlavesAlaves3298152838-1035
15Rayo Vallecano32713122739-1234
16Celta Vigo32710153747-1031
17Mallorca32613132638-1231
18CadizCadiz32413152245-2325
19Granada3239203361-2818
20Almeria32111203164-3314


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