Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has put the brakes on some rumours linking him with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old spoke to Argentine broadcaster TNT Sports while at the Ballon D’Or ceremony, via FCInterNews.
Striker Martinez has made himself a key player for Inter over his five seasons and counting with the club.
The Argentine arrived from Racing Club during the summer 2018.
Whilst Martinez arrived as a young player still needing to grow, the sense is that he is now fully mature.
This is reflected in the fact that Martinez now wears the captain’s armband for the Nerazzurri.
The Argentine has been Inter’s top scorer in each of the past two seasons. And he is now well on pace to make it three in a row.
And the Inter captain is also currently in a strong position to finish the season as Serie A’s overall top scorer.
This would naturally lead to some transfer interest in Martinez. And La Liga leaders Real Madrid are certainly a destination for Europe’s top players.
But for Martinez, there is little thought of Los Blancos – or of anything other than Inter.
Lautaro Martinez Quashes Real Madrid Rumours – Only Inter
Of Real Madrid and some summer transfer rumours, Martinez said that “Obviously we’re talking about an absolutely top team.”
“But my my thoughts and my mind are always focused on Inter,” the 26-year-old made perfectly clear.
“I’m very happy there,” Martinez continued. “I have a contract, and my family is very happy in Milano.”
Martinez said that “This evening is special for me.”
“I thank Inter and the Argentine national team.”
As for what he wants in 2024, Martinez said “To keep competing. Take Inter as far as possible, and represent Argentina in the best way.”
“And then win titles, because this is sport,” the striker added.
Martinez noted that in the last year “Between the Ballon d’Or and the World Cup, what I’m living is a dream.”
“It’s very important for me to be here tonight,” the Argentine went on.
“Last season I played in the two most important finals in football,” he said.
“Tonight is a reward for the work and sacrifice that I’ve put in.”