Julián Álvarez was the great dream of this summer at FC Barcelona, but the story has come to an end. After weeks of fruitless talks, Atlético de Madrid has made it clear that it doesn't want to sell him. The Argentine forward, a key piece for Simeone, will remain a rojiblanco for at least one more season.
The Barça sporting management has already accepted that it won't be able to sign the player desired by Flick from day one. The German coach had requested a mobile forward, with goal-scoring ability, high pressing, and defensive range. Julián fit perfectly into that profile, but the financial conditions have made him an impossible option.
Atlético has not only refused to negotiate, but has also set a prohibitive price to avoid temptations. None of the formulas proposed by Barça—neither a loan with a purchase option nor a deferred transfer—has been accepted. With that scenario, the club has decided not to waste any more time and to activate a new plan.
A change of course due to the lack of real alternatives
Barça can't afford to wait any longer in a market that's moving at great speed and with a lot of competition. Pau Víctor's departure to Braga has left a gap that must be filled urgently and with guarantees. Lewandowski isn't part of the future plans and the team is left short of forwards.
Hansi Flick needs to strengthen the attacking line with a number 9 capable of performing from the very first moment. The profile he's looking for is clear: vertical, physical, fast, pressing, and with room for improvement. The new target fits exactly those characteristics and has already been approved by the coaching staff.
Although he wasn't the first option, the club now considers him the most solid and accessible alternative. His age, experience in top leagues, and knowledge of Spanish soccer work in his favor. In addition, his cost is lower than Julián's, which facilitates a quick operation if a sale is activated.
Strategic decision based on performance, price, and fit
Deco has already reactivated contacts with his camp, which views the Barça option favorably. The player values the possibility of leaving this summer if he can have more prominence in a competitive team. Although he has had opportunities at his current club, he doesn't feel undisputed and is seeking a change of scenery.
From the offices at Camp Nou, they insist that the mistake of previous years with improvised signings won't be repeated. The goal is to sign a forward who has shown a high level in LaLiga or other top leagues. A profile that doesn't require adaptation and can grow with Flick's footballing philosophy.
The new candidate was already tracked in the past, and his signing was then ruled out for financial reasons. Now, with a different market situation, he returns to the scene as a great opportunity. The London club doesn't consider him untransferable and is open to negotiating.
The new target has already played in Spain and Flick likes him a lot
At Barça, they value his physical power, his speed, and his ability to attack space intelligently. Although he hasn't had a regular season, his qualities make him a bet with a lot of potential. The coaching staff believe he can thrive with continuity and confidence in a more offensive environment.
His experience at Villarreal left a good impression and showed that he can make a difference in LaLiga. In addition, he has grown in a league as demanding as the Premier League and still has room for improvement. At just 23 years old, he's a signing that combines present and future for the new project.
Nico Jackson is the chosen one. Barça is already preparing the final push to close the signing of the Chelsea forward.