Argentina legend Mario Kempes advises Lautaro Martínez to join Barcelona

Mario Kempes, the star of Argentina’s 1978 FIFA World Cup triumph, has advised his compatriot Lautaro Martínez to join Barcelona. Martínez plays for Inter Milan but has been heavily linked with a move to FC Barcelona.

The retired striker, nicknamed El Matador due to his ruthless finishing qualities, said that while Inter was a famous club, Barcelona was on another level.

“Inter is a great club, known throughout the world, but Barcelona is totally different. The train only passes once in your life,” he was quoted as saying.

“Playing with Lionel Messi would be fantastic for him,” Kempes added.

“But if he stays at Inter, that could also be good for him to keep gaining experience.

“For a few years now, he has shown he is a great number 9. He showed it at Inter and with Argentina.”