Barça's offices are already considering a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who's heading into his final season. The Polish striker has arrived in good shape and remains a reference point, but the cycle is coming to an end. At 36 years old, everyone knows this will be his final season as the team's starting "9".
Hansi Flick wants to prepare the ground in advance and have the replacement ready for a smooth transition. The club is looking for someone young, a goal scorer, and with experience at the highest level. There's a name that fits perfectly with the profile the coaches want.
The chosen one is none other than Julián Álvarez, the Argentine star who's amazed Europe in recent seasons. At just 25 years old, he's already been a world champion and has established himself as an offensive reference. His work rate, tactical intelligence, and finishing ability make him a very serious option.
Deco takes the initiative and sends a direct message to the player
Barça's sporting director, Deco, has already made a move to gauge the Argentine player's willingness. He has kept in touch with his camp to share the idea of the project Flick will lead. He has also sent a very clear message to get him involved.
"If you want to come to Barça, you'll have to take the step yourself," Deco told Álvarez's camp. The club needs the player to show his desire publicly to force negotiations with his current team. Only then will they be able to propose a viable operation in economic terms.
At Barça, they're convinced Julián Álvarez would be a strategic addition for the medium and long term. He has everything to become the new attacking reference for the blaugrana and start a new era. But the operation won't be simple or cheap.
The transfer will depend on a key move from the Argentine
Álvarez's camp has already made it clear the player would welcome a move to Camp Nou. However, they know his current club won't let him leave at any price. To unlock the deal, Julián will have to formally request to be allowed to leave.
The cost of the operation would range between €80 and €100 million, according to sources close to the negotiation. Joan Laporta is willing to make an effort if the footballer steps up. But Barça won't launch an offensive without clear signals from the player.
Barça's board recalls recent cases where the player's will was key. That's what happened with Lewandowski, Raphinha, or even Koundé. The player's pressure can be decisive to secure a reasonable price in the current market.
Julián Álvarez would mark the start of a new offensive era
Julián's arrival would be more than just a transfer: it would mark the start of a new goal-scoring era at Barça. His profile fits the club's offensive tradition, combining work, talent, and enormous competitive ambition. He also still has room to keep growing.
Hansi Flick has already approved his signing and considers him an ideal piece for his system. He believes he can adapt easily to the team's playing style and take on a leading role from day one. His arrival would allow continuity in the center forward position.
The club knows it must get this signing right, as it's a bet for both the present and the future. The attack needs a young leader who can guarantee goals for the next decade. Julián Álvarez has everything to be that player if he decides to take the step.
Quiet operation, but with Barça's future at stake
Barça has learned that major operations must be managed with discretion and patience. They won't make hasty moves or enter bidding wars without having everything under control. They're ready to go after the Argentine as soon as they get the player's approval.
Deco and his team are waiting for a definitive sign from Julián Álvarez in the coming days. If he decides to push for an exit, the club will activate all mechanisms to bring him in as soon as possible. The squad needs fresh air and a new idol leading the line.
If the Argentine wants to wear the blaugrana jersey, he knows what he has to do. Barça is already waiting for him. So are the fans.