Barcelona's first team is facing an inevitable transition in its offensive line. It's not surprising: despite still contributing goals and experience in the final lines, it's evident that Robert Lewandowski's era at the club is nearing its end. His contract expires in 2026, and at almost 38 years old, his continuity beyond that date is not planned in the offices of the sports management.
In this scenario, Deco and Joan Laporta are working tirelessly to find the heir to the Polish forward: someone who guarantees immediate performance but also leads the future Barça project. Beyond Lewandowski's performance, the club has suffered from a lack of reliable replacements in the '9' position. Therefore, the need to sign a top-level center forward is as urgent as it is strategic, and in this context, Laporta already has his ideal candidate in sight.
Barça's chosen one
The name that resonates most strongly in Camp Nou offices is Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward is having a great season with Atlético Madrid in his first year under Diego Simeone's orders and has quickly adapted to La Liga. Beyond the numbers, Julián has shown to have the character and profile of a modern forward that would fit perfectly in the new Barça.
Laporta sees him as much more than just a reinforcement: he believes Julián can become an emblem of the project, the new face of the team after Lewandowski's departure. It's not surprising, as he represents youth, talent, and qualities that connect with the idea of reconstruction that the Barça president wants to convey. Even more so knowing that Laporta faces the 2026 elections, so his signing would be both a sporting and political move.
An important background
The possible arrival of Julián Álvarez has a clear strategic component. Joan Laporta knows that if he wants to renew his mandate, he must present an exciting project, and nothing better than a figure like the world champion to lead it. In recent markets, the club has not been able to close major signings due to economic limitations, and making a bold move with Julián would mean support among the members.
Meanwhile, at Atlético, there is concern. Although the club has no intention of selling, they know that Barça's pressure can weigh, especially if there is a clause or if the player himself is tempted. For now, there are no formal negotiations, but the first moves have already begun.
Atlético Madrid has no intention of selling Julián Álvarez and refers to his release clause, set at 150 million euros. This figure reflects the player's importance in the team's scheme and the firm stance of the Madrid club regarding his sale.
Regarding salary, Julián Álvarez currently earns around 7 million euros net annually at Atlético Madrid. However, it has been speculated that, in the event of a transfer to Barcelona, his salary could increase to 8 million net per season, which would place him among the highest-paid players.