Joan Laporta can't stop thinking about how to strengthen FC Barcelona for the future. With the 2026 elections getting closer, the blaugrana president wants to prepare a move that will excite Barcelona fans. One of the main goals he has set is to have Julián Álvarez wear Barça's jersey.
The Argentine forward from Atlético de Madrid is highly valued by the sports department of the club presided over by Joan Laporta. With his youth, goal-scoring instinct, and versatility, he fits the profile Barça is looking for to lead the new project, but it's not a simple operation. Atlético de Madrid has already taken steps to secure the player from Calchín for more years.
Los Rojiblancos have made it clear that Julián is non-transferable; the Colchonero club considers him a key piece in their sports project. They have even told the footballer that they're not considering a sale for any amount. Even less so after the performance he has shown this season, scoring 29 goals with the Colchonero jersey.
Laporta keeps his dream
Even so, Joan Laporta isn't giving up; the culé president keeps an excellent relationship with Fernando Hidalgo, the footballer's agent. They have already had several informal contacts to discuss the possibility of Julián ending up wearing the blaugrana colors. The president has told the player's entourage that Barça could offer up to €100 million plus add-ons.
This is a very significant amount, which could only be considered if the club manages to meet the requirements of financial Fair Play, Laporta knows that right nowhe can't take on that operation. He is also aware that the context will change in two summers. That's why he has promised the Argentine that, if he waits, in 2026 he could become one of the star signings of the new Barça.
Messi can help
Laporta's intention is to make Julián one of the pillars of the next cycle, and not just convince him with a good contract or a leading role. There's another card on the table: Leo Messi. The blaugrana president trusts that the return of the "10" to the club, in some institutional or even sporting role, could help attract the young Atlético de Madrid forward.
Julián deeply admires Messi; they shared a locker room in the Argentine national team that won the World Cup in Qatar. The chance to play again under the wing of the Rosario idol is an emotional factor that could tip the balance. Laporta knows that in signings like this, feelings also matter.
The plan is underway; Barça are working discreetly but with determination. Although Atlético de Madrid have closed ranks around the forward, the culé president wants to make it clear to him that Camp Nou can also be his home. It won't be easy, but Laporta has already started pulling strings to have Julián Álvarez wear the blaugrana jersey.