A little bird tells me that Manchester are making tentative enquiries about Javier Martinez. So what do we know about this Javier ‘Javi’ Martnez fella, then?
This Pamplonian joined Osasuna’s juniors after a trial as a 10-year-old, later taking his professional bow for Osasuna B back in 2005, netting twice in 32 games. His performances with Osasuna B convinced Athletic Bilbao to shell out 6m euros for the powerful central midfielder in the summer of 2006.
The 6′ 3″ midfielder was a regular in the Athletic team and totted up an impressive 35 games for the club in the 2006-07 season.
Liverpool were reported to be close to signing Martnez in 2007/2008, at which time he acknowledged he enjoyed the “wonderful atmosphere” in the English league watching on TV.
That said, it has been reported that Fiorentina have also kept tabs on his development.
When Liverpool were linked with Martinez, it was reported he had a £17.1million release clause in his contract. But hey, it’s City – and it’s only money, eh?
