Robert Lewandowski's Future Begins to Shape Barça's Present. His contract ends in June 2026 and there are no signs of renewal. The club believes it's time to look for his replacement.
Hansi Flick still trusts him, but planning requires looking further ahead. Barça can't afford to improvise in such a decisive position. That's why the sports management is working on a list of candidates with one name at the top.
That name is Julián Álvarez. The Argentine has exploded this season at Atlético de Madrid. His profile is very appealing to the sports officials and Joan Laporta.
The Argentine Shines at the Metropolitano
Julián has replied with soccer to the initial doubts. He arrived from Manchester City for about 68 million euros. Atlético bet big and he hasn't failed.
With 24 goals and 9 assists this season, he has been the most complete forward in LaLiga. His mobility, intelligence, and energy make him ideal for a dynamic game. Additionally, he has shown personality in key matches.
His camp doesn't rule out a change if a greater challenge arises. Barça's interest has come at the right time. Because the blaugrana project is attractive to him both sportingly and in the media.
The Electoral Year Changes the Rules of the Game
2026 will be an election year at FC Barcelona. Joan Laporta seeks re-election and needs an impactful signing. Not just for soccer, but also for internal politics.
In recent electoral processes, big names have been decisive. Laporta knows this and has aimed high. Julián Álvarez would be his winning card to convince the culé member.
The Argentine meets all the requirements of the "electoral signing": young, star, scorer, and media-friendly. Additionally, his camp views the culé interest favorably. The club has already made the first informal contacts.
A Difficult but Possible Operation
Atlético doesn't want to sell, but Barça is exploring ways to negotiate. Julián Álvarez's clause is set at 100 million euros. However, a player exchange operation could lower the cost.
Barça is considering offering Ferran Torres and Lenglet to facilitate the agreement. Both footballers interest the colchonero club, especially in a context of squad renewal. The key will be the flexibility of both parties.
The player's camp is already handling salary figures. Julián could sign for five seasons, until 2031. His salary would be about 8 million net per year, placing him among the highest-paid in the locker room.
Julián, Laporta's Personal Bet
Laporta is determined to make Julián Álvarez his great promise. Not just for his goals, but for what he symbolizes: renewal, ambition, and future. A profile that fits with the idea of returning Barça to the top.
The Argentine, meanwhile, doesn't close the door. He wants to keep growing and winning titles. In Barcelona, with Lamine Yamal, Gavi, and Pedri, he sees a unique opportunity.
The negotiation won't be easy. But if Laporta is re-elected, he will do everything possible to bring him. In that scenario, Julián Álvarez could wear the blaugrana sooner than many imagine.