Barcelona already has its main goal for next summer marked in red: to strengthen the forward line with a top-level signing. Hansi Flick and Joan Laporta agree that the club needs to start preparing now for Robert Lewandowski's replacement. It's no wonder: the Polish footballer will face his last season as a blaugrana before ending his time at Camp Nou.
Julián Álvarez is the name that most appeals to the sporting management. The Argentine forward, currently at Atlético de Madrid, meets all the conditions Barça is looking for: youth, international experience, technical quality, and goal-scoring ability. Flick has given his approval to the plan, convinced that his addition would be key for the project's future.
The plan to make his signing a reality
Laporta and Deco know that it won't be an easy signing. Julián Álvarez is an essential piece for Atlético de Madrid and his departure would require a very high investment, close to €90 or €100 million. However, Barça is willing to wait until next summer, when Robert Lewandowski's time comes to an end and the squad needs a new attacking reference.
During this time, the club will work on the financial and sporting preparation of the operation. The idea is to free up wage bill, secure income from strategic sales, and strengthen the project's appeal. For Laporta, convincing the Argentine won't be impossible if he presents him with a clear sporting plan and the opportunity to lead a forward line alongside young players like Lamine Yamal, Gavi, or Pedri.
He's the ideal '9' for Flick
The German coach believes Julián Álvarez fits perfectly into his footballing philosophy. He's not only a forward capable of scoring goals, but he also stands out for his mobility, his ability to link up with the midfield, and his commitment in defense. Flick especially values his experience in top-level competitions and his competitive mentality, qualities he sees as essential to succeed at Camp Nou.
Álvarez's arrival would represent the beginning of a new era in the blaugrana attack. With the Argentine, Barça would gain a modern forward, capable of adapting to different systems and offering immediate solutions without giving up on the future. For Laporta, achieving this signing would be a sporting and media coup, as well as a clear message of ambition for the coming years.