Robert Lewandowski remains a living legend of world soccer, but time spares no one. With 37 years old (37 años) on the horizon, the Polish striker is beginning to feel the weight of age in his performance. Although he continues to score important goals, his physique no longer allows him to keep the consistency he once had.
From the sporting management at FC Barcelona, there is consensus: this could be his last season as the attacking reference. The club needs to look ahead and build a young, versatile forward line ready to compete at the highest level. Joan Laporta and Deco are already working quietly to find the ideal replacement.
Julián Álvarez, the perfect profile for Barça's future
The name that has gained the most traction in Camp Nou offices is Julián Álvarez. The Argentine striker, currently at Atlético de Madrid, brings together all the characteristics Hansi Flick is looking for. He is fast, intelligent, has a goal-scoring instinct and, most importantly, he is used to playing in a demanding, winning system.
With Pep Guardiola, he learned to move between the lines, press high, and combine in tight spaces. His versatility allows him to play as a center forward, second striker, or even winger. In addition, at just 25 years old (25 años), he has a decade of high-level play ahead of him if he keeps progressing.
At Barça, they believe his arrival would mean an immediate quality boost in attack. Julián could share minutes with Lewandowski this season and take on the leading role starting in 2026.
A complicated operation, but not impossible
Signing Julián Álvarez won't be an easy task, but Barça is willing to make a significant effort. In Madrid, they don't want to let him go easily, although the arrival of new strikers could open a door. The Catalan club is clear that it needs to offer more than just money to convince Atlético.
The solution being considered involves a high-impact swap that would balance the total cost of the operation. Barça would be willing to include one of its most promising youngsters as part of the deal. Specifically, there are three names on the table: Fermín López, Casadó, or Gavi.
Atlético also enters the scene and could facilitate the transfer
Atlético de Madrid has shown interest in strengthening its midfield with young talent and potential. At the Metropolitano, they view players like Gavi or Fermín favorably, as they could gain more minutes and responsibility. This is where an unexpected possibility arises for Barça: including Atleti as a third party in the operation.
The idea would be simple: Barça would loan one of these players to Atlético, who in turn would assume part of the cost of signing Julián. The rojiblanco club would have the freedom to choose between Gavi, Fermín, or Casadó according to its needs. The financial difference would be paid in a deferred payment by Barça.
This move would free up wage bill, satisfy Atlético, and convince them to accept the sale. This is a deal that could be closed before the start of next season, if the conditions align. Everything will depend on Guardiola's final decision and the player's willingness.
A necessary generational change for Flick's Barça
Lewandowski's farewell won't be easy, either emotionally or in terms of leadership, but it is inevitable. Barça needs to renew itself without losing competitiveness, and Julián Álvarez represents exactly that. A modern striker with a winning mentality, ready to lead the attack of the future.
Planning has already begun. Laporta wants to secure the future of Barça's goals before the end of 2025. If everything falls into place, Julián's signing will be one of the major moves of next summer.