Barcelona doesn't rule out making a high-impact move to strengthen its forward line. The blaugrana club is looking for a "9" who can make a difference both this season and looking ahead to 2026. Among the names on the club's agenda, two top priorities stand out: Julián Álvarez and Erling Haaland.
These are two footballers who, in terms of level and potential, fit the profile sought by the sporting management. The first option, and perhaps the most feasible economically, is Julián Álvarez. The Argentine striker from Atleti has shown that he can perform at the highest level in any scenario. His mobility, ability to link up with teammates, and goal-scoring instinct make him an ideal candidate to lead the blaugrana attack.
Moreover, his age and room for growth fit with the long-term strategy sought by the Catalan entity. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland is the big dream. The Norwegian goal scorer is one of the most decisive forwards on the planet. His signing appears to be a complex operation. Manchester City has no intention of letting him leave and his market price is very high.
Samu is another plan
Even so, Barcelona keeps hope alive to take advantage of any opening that may arise in the market. Beyond these two priorities, the club is working on alternatives that can offer potential and immediate performance. A third option on the agenda is Samu Aghehowa. The young Nigerian striker is one of the great emerging prospects in international soccer.
His speed, power, and ability to unbalance have made him a target closely monitored by blaugrana scouts. The signing of Samu Aghehowa would represent a bet for the future. The idea would be to bring him in so he can gradually adapt to the demands of European soccer. An operation of this kind would allow Barcelona to secure a striker with great potential before his price skyrockets in the market.
Rashford is the home option
Meanwhile, the fourth option being considered at Camp Nou is to keep Marcus Rashford on the list of candidates. The English striker, currently at Barça, combines goal-scoring, dribbling, and experience at the elite level. His arrival would provide tactical options and depth to the blaugrana squad. Barcelona doesn't want to make a misstep. The club's financial situation forces it to weigh every move.
That's why all options are analyzed with both immediate competitiveness and future flexibility in mind. The sporting management is working with a focus on strengthening a key position. The choice of the "9" will not only define the current squad but also the sporting project through 2026. Whether with Julián Álvarez, Erling Haaland, Samu Aghehowa, or Marcus Rashford, the objective is very clear: to find the center forward who will lead the blaugrana attack in the coming years.