Robert Lewandowski remains one of the main references at FC Barcelona. His arrival brought goals, leadership, and experience to a team that was looking for an offensive leader after the departure of historic figures. However, the club is aware that his contract ends very soon and that, when that time comes, he could put an end to his time at Camp Nou.
With that date on the horizon, the sporting management have started working on a plan to ensure the team keeps a high scoring level in the coming years. The goal is clear: to anticipate in order to avoid improvisation and make sure the Polish striker's replacement is defined and ready to take on the spotlight from day one at Barça.
A proper name for Laporta
In internal discussions, the priority has a first and last name: Julián Álvarez. The Atlético de Madrid striker is seen as the ideal heir to Lewandowski because of his characteristics and his potential. His ability to adapt in attack, his intensity off the ball, his goal-scoring instinct, and his experience at the top level make him a profile that fits the blaugrana philosophy.
The problem won't be his performance, but the cost of the operation. His release clause is around €100 million, and Atlético de Madrid doesn't consider letting go of one of its key pieces without a high offer. The blaugrana board assumes that an ambitious financial plan will be necessary and that sales will probably have to be made to afford the signing.
Strategic decision, Flick's support
Hansi Flick has given his full approval to the operation. The coach especially values Julián's movement, pressing, and tactical intelligence, qualities that fit his playing philosophy. For him, he wouldn't just be a natural replacement for Lewandowski, but also a player who could bring a new dimension to the Barça attack.
With his approval, Barça has total alignment between the sporting area and the board to move forward with the necessary steps. The intention is that, when the time comes, the team won't lose its punch or its ability to dominate offensively.
Joan Laporta believes that these kinds of moves are what define the club's direction in the medium term. His message is clear: if an extraordinary effort needs to be made, it will be made. The experience with Robert Lewandowski, who arrived to make a difference from his debut, serves as an example that betting big on an elite striker can be decisive.