Athletic Bilbao defender Inigo Martinez is preparing to leave for Barcelona.

Martinez is off contract this summer and expected to agree to a Bosman move with Barca.

Indeed, local journalist Gerard Romero is reporting the Basque centre-back's wife is today in Barcelona and the surrounding area looking at houses with a view to a possible move next season.

Barca coach Xavi lacks a left-sided centre-back and is backing a move for Martinez.

Athletic Club accept they'll lose the defender this summer.