FC Barcelona is already thinking about next season. One of the main objectives is to strengthen the forward line with a reliable '9'. Although Lewandowski remains important, his contract ends in 2026, and the club is looking for his natural replacement.
Among the names most favored in Camp Nou offices, one stands out in capital letters. His performance this season has been impressive, and he has become one of the stars of LaLiga. Hansi Flick has already given the green light, and Deco has been working for weeks to analyze the feasibility of the signing.
Key Visit to the Metropolitano: The Mystery Unveiled
Joan Laporta took advantage of the Copa del Rey semifinal return leg to talk with Enrique Cerezo. The relationship between Barça and Atlético remains good, despite the tension of previous years. The Barça president didn't miss the opportunity to probe the operation.
The player in question had been mentioned at various times throughout the year, but now the interest is real. Barça's coaching staff believes he can fit perfectly into Flick's scheme, due to his style, profile, and scoring ability.
During that visit to the Metropolitano, Laporta dared to ask directly about the player's contract conditions. That's when the "surprise" was revealed.
A Clause That Changes All Plans
Until now, it was publicly unknown, but Atlético was clear in their response. The player is not for sale, neither for 80 nor for 100 million. If Barça wants to take him, they must pay the full clause.
A clause that, according to internal club sources, is 150 million euros.
Laporta couldn't hide his astonishment. Upon returning to Barcelona, he described the figure as "a complete madness" in private conversations. The rojiblanco club refers to the signed document and doesn't intend to negotiate.
That amount makes any operation practically unfeasible. In Barça's current economic context, paying 150 million is directly impossible.
A Profile That Fits Perfectly
The most frustrating thing for Barça's sports management is that the player fits perfectly into the project. He has goals, speed, youth, and a winning mentality. He has already shown his ability to perform on big stages and is ready to take another step in his career.
Moreover, close sources assure that the footballer would be delighted to wear Barça's jersey. His entourage has already been approached and sees the option of moving to Camp Nou favorably. But everything is complicated by a figure out of reach.
With the clause on the table, the club must rethink its priorities. There are other names on the list, like Luis Díaz, Nico Williams, or even more economical options in the international market. The problem is that none are as convincing as him.
Barça will remain alert, hoping that circumstances change, but unless there is an unexpected turn, the operation seems closed before it begins. Everything will depend on significant sales or unforeseen income. Otherwise, the player will remain in Madrid.
The Name That Changes Everything
Yes, the main target was Julián Álvarez, the current star of Atlético de Madrid. With 23 goals and 5 assists, he has become one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe. His performance has garnered praise from all sectors, including the culé coaching staff.
But his release clause, valued at 150 million euros, leaves the operation practically buried. Laporta has already accepted that there will be no negotiations, and any attempt to sign him is conditioned on paying that amount.
In summary: "It's an impossible clause. A c...," was the phrase most repeated in the club's offices upon learning the figure. The desire to sign him exists, but the economic reality prevails.