In the last 18 months or so, Lautaro Martinez has formed an incredible striking partnership with Romelu Lukaku at Inter.
The Argentine arrived to Milano on a transfer deal worth 25 millions including bonuses from Racing Club of Avellaneda.
Although his first season at the club was a little bit underwhelming, the arrival of his Belgian teammate served as a real game changer.
In 27 league appearances this term, El Toro managed to score 14 goals whilst also providing 8 assists for his teammates.
According to Calciomercato, Lautaro and Inter have an agreement in principal regarding the extension of the player’s contract.
The striker’s current contract deal expires in the summer of 2023, and the thus the two parties are expected to renew until 2024.
The Numbers
Whilst the number 10 currently earns around 3 million euros per year, his new contract will see his salary rising up to 4.5 millions.
On another note, Martinez could be willing to agree on waving the buyout clause that was added to the last contract.
The clause mentioned above is worth 111 million euros, and Barcelona were reportedly trying to lure the player out of Italy using this contractual tool.
However, the report believes that Lautaro is no longer interested in joining the Catalan club, and is happy to remain at Inter for a further period.
The Hurdle
Nonetheless, one final hurdle is mentioned in the report, and that is Sunning’s ongoing financial problems. (Note: Sunning is the Chinese company that owns the majority of the club’s shares).
Therefore, this has led the final signatures to be postponed, but the source still expects the renewal to be completed eventually.
Our View
In today’s world, tying down a striker in the caliber of Lautaro for a contract worth 4.5 millions per season would be considered a bargain for Inter.
The club would be wise to put their financial problems aside and seal the deal as soon as possible.