FC Barcelona’s search for a new striker was already underway, but Robert Lewandowski’s departure has elevated the issue to the top of the club’s priorities.
Hansi Flick wants a forward capable of producing numbers similar to those of the Polish striker. Inside the club, there is a strong belief that Julian Alvarez is the ideal man to inherit that role.
Barcelona are convinced that the Argentine could reach even greater heights at the Camp Nou than he has at Atletico Madrid, thanks to the team’s attacking style and the quality of players around him.
Alvarez priority but deal difficult
Alvarez is currently focused on the World Cup, but he is understood to be enthusiastic about the possibility of joining Flick’s project.
Julian Alvarez is Barcelona’s priority. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
However, negotiations remain difficult. Atlético Madrid have no desire to strengthen a direct rival, especially Barcelona, and the Catalans’ current valuation of just over €100 million is considered insufficient by the club from the capital.
Barcelona are refusing to give up and view the operation as a marathon rather than a sprint. Deco is aware that patience will be required, but he is also preparing alternatives should the pursuit of Alvarez prove impossible, reports MARCA.
Three alternatives
As per the report, Barcelona have Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy, Etta Eyong of Levante and Manchester United hitman Benjamin Sesko on their shortlist as alternatives for Alvarez.
Guirassy has been linked on and off with Barcelona for quite some time now, and the existence of a release clause in his contract at Signal Iduna Park could make a deal easier.
Serhou Guirassy remains on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Leon Kügeler/Getty Images)
As for Eyong, he too has been followed closely by the Catalans, with the Cameroonian himself keen on making the switch.
Sesko, perhaps, represents the biggest name on the list, with Deco having been an admirer of the Manchester United forward for a long time.
However, given he moved to Old Trafford only last season, any move appears unlikely at this stage unless there is a big offer from the Blaugrana.
Barcelona know that if they are serious about competing for the Champions League, strengthening the attack is essential. And in the eyes of Flick and the club hierarchy, Alvarez remains the dream solution.
But given the challenges expected in pursuit of the Argentine, backup plans are in place.
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